On September 13, the State Council Information Office hosted a press conference centered around the theme of “Promoting High-Quality Development.” During the event, a reporter inquired, “The quality of drugs has a direct impact on public health and safety. We’ve noticed that the National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) is taking steps to enhance drug safety. Can you provide an update on the current progress and effectiveness of these measures? How does the NMPA plan to further strengthen its oversight of drug quality and safety?”
In response, Zhao Junning, Deputy Director of the NMPA, reaffirmed the agency’s dedication to drug safety. He explained that the NMPA is committed to purifying the drug market and ensuring a positive safety environment. Since June 2023, the agency has initiated an 18-month campaign focused on boosting drug safety, with the goal of reinforcing safety standards and safeguarding public health.
Zhao elaborated on the agency’s priorities, detailing their proactive measures in addressing potential risks. This includes closely monitoring critical products, essential processes, key regions, and specific companies. The NMPA is carrying out targeted inspections across various domains, such as drug sales and usage, specialized drugs, and oversight of medical device manufacturers. Through comprehensive risk assessments and management, the NMPA is enhancing its abilities in risk warning, identification, and resolution.
Additionally, Zhao stressed the NMPA’s stringent approach to tackling significant cases and criminal activities. The agency employs strategies like publicizing typical cases and releasing lists of entities that have committed serious violations, ensuring accountability through individual penalties. This collaborative strategy incorporates joint penalties, industry bans, and strict enforcement measures to sustain drug safety.
To enhance their regulatory framework, Zhao mentioned ongoing improvements to institutional mechanisms. He pointed out that local management responsibilities are being strengthened, along with departmental oversight and corporate accountability, promoting a cohesive effort for drug safety. The NMPA has also teamed up with the State Administration for Market Regulation to provide guidelines that enhance collaborative supervision of drugs across various government levels. Additionally, they are working alongside the Ministry of Public Security to develop effective guidelines for addressing criminal activities related to drugs.
In conclusion, Zhao asserted that the NMPA will continue to prioritize its main initiatives aimed at improving drug safety, intensifying efforts to address major cases, and imposing strict penalties for violations. The agency is determined to strengthen risk assessment processes and further solidify the foundational standards for drug safety.
