FDA to Improve Inspection of Chinese Imports

March 2008

After months of recalls and health scares prompted by tainted and defective Chinese imports, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has taken steps to tighten the inspections process for all products shipped from China. The U.S. State Department has approved the creation of eight permanent FDA positions at U.S. diplomatic posts in the People’s Republic of China.

The FDA plans to hire and place staff in China over the next 18 months. In addition, the agency will hire five local Chinese nationals to work with the new FDA staff at the U.S. Embassy in Beijing and the U.S. Consulates General in Shanghai and Guangzhou. The permanent overseas offices will allow for more comprehensive inspections and increased access to Chinese manufacturers.

Expanding the FDA’s reach outside of the United States supports the agency’s “Beyond our Borders” initiative, which focuses on building stronger international relationships with counterpart agencies and manufacturers. Establishment of the new FDA positions will be finalized upon authorization from the Chinese government.