China is set to significantly expand its healthcare sector by allowing the establishment of wholly foreign-owned hospitals in several key cities and regions. According to an official document released on Sunday, cities including Beijing, Tianjin, Shanghai, Nanjing, Suzhou, Fuzhou, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, and the island of Hainan will be eligible for these new medical facilities.
The Ministry of Commerce (MOC), the National Health Commission, and the National Medical Products Administration jointly issued a circular outlining the expansion of pilot programs aimed at opening up the medical field. While specific conditions, requirements, and procedures for establishing these hospitals will be detailed at a later date, this move marks a significant step towards integrating more international expertise into China's healthcare system.
In addition to hospitals, foreign-invested enterprises will be permitted to develop and apply technologies related to human stem cells and gene diagnosis and treatment. These activities will take place within pilot free-trade zones in Beijing, Shanghai, Guangdong Province, and the Hainan Free Trade Port. The initiative also covers the registration, launch, and production of relevant medical products, provided that enterprises adhere to China's laws and regulations, including those governing human genetic resources, drug clinical trials, and ethical reviews.
Local authorities are encouraged to actively engage with and support foreign enterprises, enhancing communication and supervision to identify and mitigate potential risks effectively. This ensures that the integration of foreign investments aligns with national standards and ethical practices.
\"China will further promote the opening up of the service industry and increase the openness and innovation efforts in emerging fields such as telecom value-added services, healthcare, digital economy, culture and tourism, transportation, commercial aerospace, and fashion consumption,\" said Meng Huating, deputy head of the foreign investment department at the MOC. \"China will also ensure that foreign-invested enterprises receive national treatment in terms of access to key factors, qualification licensing, standard setting and government procurement.\"
This strategic move is expected to attract more international businesses and foster innovation within China's rapidly growing healthcare and technology sectors, providing enhanced services and cutting-edge medical solutions to both domestic and global communities.
Reference(s):
China to allow wholly foreign-owned hospitals in certain areas
cgtn.com
