China's vaccines exported to over 40 countries

China to date has exported COVID-19 vaccines to more than 40 countries, and has 21 vaccines in clinical trials to assist the world's fight against the pandemic, said commerce officials.

The government has issued conditional market approval to four COVID-19 vaccines, and such products manufactured by China National Pharmaceutical Group and Sinovac Biotech Co Ltd have already been included in the World Health Organization's list for emergency use, said Li Xingqian, director-general of the foreign trade department at the Ministry of Commerce.

The official said China encourages its four manufacturers of vaccine products that have been conditionally qualified in the domestic market to actively expand their exports.

"In order to ensure the quality and safety of vaccine products, the government supports Sinopharm, Sinovac and Tianjin-based CanSino Biologics Inc to export independently," said Li, adding China welcomes countries and international organizations in need to directly negotiate and cooperate with these companies.

As defeating COVID-19 is the top priority for many countries, Qian Chunying, an official at the ministry's department of outward investment and economic cooperation, said apart from exporting vaccines to countries such as Pakistan, Zimbabwe, Cambodia and Philippines, China has efficiently organized and implemented vaccine aid programs to 88 countries and four international organizations.

Supported by cold-chain transportation services, Qian said that, as of Sunday, China had shipped vaccines and syringes to 66 countries and one international organization as part of its vaccines aid work.

China exported $13.96 billion pharmaceutical products, including vaccines, in the first four months of this year, soaring by 129.5 percent on a yearly basis, data from the General Administration of Customs showed.