Market Information
Asia Pacific

The Biotechnology Market in China

November 2001

Prepared by the Market Research Centre and the Canadian Trade Commissioner Service

© Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade
(FaxLink no. 42573)

Report prepared by the Market Research Centre

Market Support Division (TCM)
Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade
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Fax: (613) 943-1103
E-mail: mrc@dfait-maeci.gc.ca

The Market Research Centre produces a wide range of market reports by region and sector for Canadian exporters. These reports are available from:

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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

The biotechnology market in China can be divided into two predominant segments--medical biotechnology or pharmaceuticals, and agricultural biotechnology. As in most other global markets, the medical biotechnology segment is significantly larger, both in terms of research and commercialization. The market for biotechnology-based drugs in China is currently estimated to be worth $4.5 billion⁽¹⁾, while the pharmaceutical market is valued at approximately $33.5 billion. The Chinese market is expected to be among the top 10 pharmaceutical markets in the world by 2005.

Food security and self-sufficiency are important issues in China. The need for technology to improve yield and food quality is essential in order to continue to meet population demands. As a result, China has been actively researching agricultural biotechnology applications and was the first country in the world to grow genetically modified crops when it planted transgenic tobacco in 1988. China currently has the fourth-largest acreage of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) after the United States, Argentina and Canada with approximately 800 000 acres planted in 1999.

It appears that China may of late be pursuing a more cautious approach to GMO agriculture and food products perhaps in view of the increasing international controversy and the need to ensure market access to countries with GMO regulations such as Japan, Korea and the EU. On June 6, 2001 this was demonstrated by the introduction of new regulations for GMO products.

Biotechnology has been targeted as one of the six key industrial technologies intended to fuel growth in the economy. Major investments in a number of major cities in China, including Shanghai and Beijing, is contributing to growing interest in biotechnology joint-ventures with western organizations as well increasing demand for biotechnology-related consumables, research and development (R&D) equipment and supporting technology.

China remains a complex and frequently changing marketplace, making it imperative for most foreign exporters to seek Chinese partners to facilitate navigation of the local trade environment. It is also beneficial for companies interested in accessing this potentially lucrative market to view China as a collection of regional markets, each with their own unique trade practices, purchasing policies and regulatory environments. These regional markets interplay with an intricate national framework of bureaucracies, regulations and policies, making market access a challenge for new exporters. Canadian companies are advised, therefore, to develop a thorough knowledge of the market prior to undertaking business transactions in the region.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

MARKET OVERVIEW

Key Factors Shaping Market Growth
Opportunities
Actual and Planned Projects

COMPETITIVE ENVIRONMENT

Local Capabilities
International Competition
Canadian Position
Competitive Advantage through Canadian Government Policies and Initiatives

PRIVATE-SECTOR CUSTOMERS

PUBLIC-SECTOR CUSTOMERS

Government Procurement Regulations

MARKET LOGISTICS

Channels of Distribution
Direct Sales
Distributors and Wholesalers
Agents and Sales Representatives
Joint Ventures
Market-entry Considerations
Local Standards, Certificates or Registrations

PROMOTIONAL EVENTS

KEY CONTACTS AND SUPPORT SERVICES

BIBLIOGRAPHY

OTHER REFERENCE MATERIAL

Useful Internet Sites

MARKET OVERVIEW

Medical Biotechnology and Pharmaceuticals

Many traditional pharmaceutical companies, both internationally and in China, are turning their attention to the potential of biopharmaceuticals and biotechnology processes for the development of new drugs, particularly as the science behind biotechnology develops. As yet, the distinction between pharmaceuticals and biopharmaceuticals is not clear. In fact, many pharmaceutical products may not be considered biotechnology products, but have been derived through biotechnology processes. As a result, an examination of the Chinese pharmaceutical industry is an essential part of understanding opportunities for Canadian biotechnology companies in this market.

China's pharmaceutical market is currently worth an estimated $33.5 billion and by 2005 is expected to be among the top 10 pharmaceutical markets in the world. The country's annual per-capita pharmaceuticals consumption has been rising steadily over the last several years, increasing from $8.80 in 1993 to $16.73 in 1999. Imports have been growing at a faster rate than per-capita consumption, demonstrating that foreign suppliers have been increasing their share of China's pharmaceutical market in recent years. However, domestic protection through the country's reimbursement system is expected to have a negative impact on demand for imports over the short to medium term. In 1998, 49% of the total market for pharmaceuticals was served through imports or Sino-foreign joint ventures.

In the first five months of 2000, imports of traditional Chinese medicine, herbal medicine and Western medicines rose 33.2%, 31.1% and 12.2% respectively, over the same period in 1999. Imports of bulk pharmaceuticals increased by a relatively modest 1%. However, growth in imports of finished drugs declined to 9.5% in 1999, from 41.6% in the previous year. Antibiotics account for the largest share of the import market at 11.6% of the import total in 1999. Key growth areas in the Chinese pharmaceutical market include gastrointestinal and metabolic products, demand for which increased by 17% in 1999. In the same year, these products accounted for a combined 14.2% of the total imported finished drugs market. Injectable cephalosporin (ceftriaxone) is the leading product in terms of sales to major urban hospitals, while anti-infectives represent another area with strong commercial potential. In 1999, of the 1408 therapeutic products approved for sale in China, 535 were for anti-infectives. A further 49.5% of approvals was for western synthetic drugs.

Asian culture strongly encourages the use of preventative medicine. Hence, there is also a large market in the region for non-prescription products that claim to promote overall health. Over-the-counter (OTC) products in the Asian market mainly comprise vitamins and dietary supplements which account for 56.4% of sales in this category. The overall nutritional products market in the Asia-Pacific region is expected to have a value of $71.9 billion in 2002, an increase of 62% over 1997 figures. Nutraceutical sales alone are expected to be worth $19.2 billion in 2002, up from $15.5 billion in 1997. The vast majority of these sales will be made in China, Japan and Korea. The dietary supplements market in China, which includes general health foods, is estimated to be worth $7.6 billion and is projected to grow to $18 billion by 2010. The dietary supplements segment is considered to be the fastest growing segment of the Chinese health-care market.

China has invested significantly in biotechnology research over the last five years and continues to view the sector as a potential growth sector for the nation's economy. In the Ninth Five-Year Plan issued in 1995, the Government affirmed its commitment to fostering innovation in medical biotechnology, particularly in the areas of biopharmaceuticals and vaccines. China's market for biotechnology-based drugs is currently estimated to be worth $4.5 billion, an increase from $1.8 billion in 1997. Key areas of interest, in terms of both domestic R&D efforts and imports, include interferon, IL-2, TNF, t-PA, hepatitis B vaccine and human growth hormones.

Shanghai, Beijing and Guangzhou are the leading cities for biotechnology R&D in the country. China also has plans to develop Hangzhou, Zheijiang Province and Pudong, Shanghai as hubs for biotechnology and pharmaceutical production. Beijing Global Biotechnology Centre,⁽²⁾ under the auspices of the Academy of Sciences, has invested heavily in the development of an international biotechnology research park in Hangzhou, reported to be the largest of its kind in China. In Pudong, development of a pharmaceutical complex, nicknamed "The Pharmaceutical City of China," has strengthened the area's capacity in pharmaceutical R&D. Research activities in Pudong are focused on cardiac-cerebral vascular drugs, anti-infectives and anti-cancer drugs, fertility regulating drugs, anti-aging drugs, digestive drugs, and vitamins and nutrition preparations.

The High Technology R&D Program at the China National Centre of Biotechnology Development allocates 32% of its total funding to pharmaceutical research. Foreign companies are only eligible for these and other public funds and tax incentives if they are engaged in a joint venture with a local entity. Local laws and regulations concerning foreign investment strongly encourage technology transfer, although other forms of co-operative research are also actively promoted. China's keen interest in developing its biopharmaceutical potential indicates clear opportunities for Canadian companies to contribute their knowledge and technology to this budding sector. There are opportunities, as well, for Canadian firms to engage in joint manufacturing arrangements, assist in clinical trials, offer data management services and supporting technology, and market consultation services related to preparing products for commercialization.

Agricultural Biotechnology

Food security and food self-sufficiency are key issues for China. With an ever-growing population and increasingly scarce agricultural resources, the need for technology to improve yield and food quality is essential. China was the first country in the world to grow genetically modified crops when it planted transgenic tobacco in 1988. China currently has the fourth-largest acreage of GMOs after the United States, Argentina and Canada with approximately 800 000 acres planted in 1999.

Source: Freedonia Group Inc., "World Agricultural Biotechnology: GMOs to 2004," March 2000.

The most significant genetically modified (GM) crops for China, now and for the future, include cotton, tobacco and rice. In fact, cotton was the first commercialized genetically modified plant. Analysts have predicted that the majority of all rice, wheat, corn, cotton, soybean and canola crops would be GM varieties by 2010 and that sales of GM seeds would reach $82 million by 2004. This euphoria over GMO has been dampened somewhat recently with the introduction of new Chinese regulations governing GMO products, and there are indications that the Government will take a more cautious approach to the introduction of GMO agriculture and food products. This is in part due to the controversy and public attention internationally surrounding GMO's together with the concern about being excluded from key international markets such as Japan, Korea and the EU which have, or are in the process of, implementing regulations for GMO products.

The most common traits for all GM varieties include disease, bacteria and insect resistance, as well as herbicide resistance. The Ministry of Agriculture chairs the National Safety Committee, which to date has received 262 applications for testing of GM crops at any of four stages: research, isolated growing trials, field trials on limited land area, and commercial production. To date only three varieties of GM cotton are being grown commercially, although varieties of tomato and one each of petunia and green pepper have received approval for commercial production.

The largest GM crop in China is cotton. Varieties of cotton have been modified for insect resistance against bollworms and currently dominate cotton production throughout the country. Yields from modified varieties are significantly higher and insecticide applications are reduced from 12-15 to just one.

The Government has created research and development programs with strong agricultural biotechnology components through the National Program on High Technology Development (known as the 863 Program), and the National Program on the Development of Basic Research (known as the 973 Program). In the early 1990s, six state-sponsored research institutes and universities partnered together to begin work on a rice genome mapping project in an effort to develop improved varieties. Other areas of research interest include mapping and molecular cloning, developing salt and drought tolerance, as well as nutritional improvement. However, despite research strength, the biotechnology industry in China is still immature because of limited private sector involvement.

There has been limited public opposition to the development of genetically modified foods in China, particularly when compared with reactions in Europe, and increasingly, in North America. There is little discussion of GMOs in the state-controlled media, although, the China Consumer Association issued a statement in January 2000 calling for labelling of genetically modified food products.

The Chinese have also applied agricultural biotechnology research to the medical field by genetically modifying potatoes to protect people from the hepatitis B virus. The technology is currently beginning the first phase of human testing. There is also work, at research centres throughout China, on genetically modified animals for both medical and agricultural purposes. The Chinese are working to breed sheep and goats that produce more meat, and to develop human vaccines and antibodies in the milk of goats, rabbits and cattle. In partnership with Denmark, China launched a project in July 2000 to sequence the pig genome and encourage studies on xeno-transplantation. Results from this research is still years away, but the work has attracted the attention of international scientists.

The most significant opportunities for Canadian companies in this sector are in joint ventures and research partnering arrangements with Chinese research centres and companies. There are opportunities for technology transfer agreements and research collaboration in canola, corn and wheat research.

Key Factors Shaping Market Growth

The Chinese government is strongly encouraging the development of commercial ventures from existing state-run medical and biotechnology research institutions. The Government's efforts are part of a general reform plan for a broad spectrum of scientific disciplines. More than 100 scientific research institutes operating under the auspices of the State Council were expected to be transferred to the private sector by the end of 2000, following the conversion of 242 state-run research organizations into commercial ventures in 1999. It is hoped that the development of commercial ventures will attract more research funding and will increase the number of market-oriented projects being undertaken at the institutes.

Biotechnology has been targeted as one of the six key industrial technologies intended to fuel growth in the economy. Major investments in a number of major cities in China, including Shanghai and Beijing, is contributing to growing interest in biotechnology joint-ventures with western organizations as well increasing demand for biotechnology-related consumables, R&D equipment and supporting technology.

Medical Biotechnology and Pharmaceuticals

Although China is not facing an aging population to the same extent as in many western nations, rising life expectancy may have a longer-term effect on the health-care market in China. At present, only 6% of the population (84.8 million) is over the age of 65; however this could increase to 13% by 2025. As the population ages, greater demand for both home-care and clinical products and services that cater to the specific needs of older people is expected. Other demographic shifts, such as a growing number of middle-class residents and rising income levels, are also contributing to an increased demand for certain products, including OTC products perceived to have preventive health qualities.

Chinese consumers are very active in their own personal health and well-being, contributing to growing demand for OTC pharmaceutical products with preventive health qualities. The great importance placed on good health in Chinese culture has also fuelled growth in demand for Western medicines. The Chinese have relied on the curative properties of herbal medicines for centuries and have now invested the same faith in the power of modern preparations, including foreign-produced drugs, to heal or prevent illness. Modern medicines have not superceded traditional remedies; rather, they are often prescribed in conjunction with herbal or Chinese treatments.

Government investments in biotechnology R&D are expected to significantly enhance China's capacity for pharmaceutical production, shifting China's emphasis from bulk pharmaceuticals to more sophisticated prescription and OTC products. Provided China is able to enlist the aid it needs to commercialize R&D output, China's focus on non-branded generics may also shift. This situation could have both a negative and positive impact on foreign suppliers of brand-name pharmaceuticals and biopharmaceuticals. While it may increase opportunities for foreign research organizations and pharmaceutical producers in the form of joint ventures and other Sino-foreign partnerships, it may threaten the position of imported brand-name products, since China offers a high level of protection to domestic producers. Foreign participation in the Chinese pharmaceutical market depends to a great extent on China's limited production capacity. Accordingly, once China's production increases, enabled through technology transfer and R&D investments, foreign suppliers' share of the total market may decrease.

Agricultural Biotechnology

Research into new GM food products continues in China with research centres working on soybeans, corn, papaya, potatoes, cabbage, Chinese pear, chili peppers and cucumbers. In most cases, scientists are seeking disease resistance and increased yield. Additional research funding will ensure that this work continues.

There have, however, been recent indications that the regulatory environment in China may become more stringent in light of recent contamination scares internationally. In September 2000, the Chinese government announced, through the National Laboratory for Agrobiotechnology at the China Agricultural University, the potential creation of a centre to monitor the environmental effects of genetically modified plants as a result of Japanese resistance to importing genetically modified soybean products.

Opportunities

The predominate opportunities for Canadian biotechnology companies are in the field of medical biotechnology and pharmaceuticals.

Medical Biotechnology and Pharmaceuticals

Increasingly high incidences of respiratory disease, cerebrovascular disease, cancer and heart disease have led to greater demand for products used in the prevention or treatment of these conditions. Respiratory disease alone accounts for 20.7% of all deaths in China, followed by cerebrovascular disease and cancer at 19.2% and 18.4%, respectively.

Western medicines have been gaining popularity in the Chinese market in recent years, primarily as a result of the perception by many Chinese consumers that Western synthetic drugs offer additional benefits and higher-quality ingredients than some of the traditional products already on the market. Western medicines are not likely to supercede the centuries-old traditional Chinese medicine industry, however. Traditional preparations are widely used and trusted throughout Asia and are often used in conjunction with Western products. Therefore, there is strong demand for pharmaceutical products that combine the curative or palliative effects of Chinese and Western medicines in China, particularly for biotechnology-derived drugs that capitalize on the strengths of each.

Biotechnology is a rapidly growing segment of the medical market in China, with investment in the sector increasing by a remarkable 2500% since 1988. There is significant interest in China not only for biotechnology-derived products but also in joint-venture initiatives with foreign biotechnology enterprises and research institutes that would contribute to the development of China's biotechnology output capacity. Opportunities for Canadian companies include technology transfer arrangements, co-operative research endeavours with local institutes, direct investment in R&D projects, and assisting biotechnology centres and enterprises in the preparation of products for commercialization.

There is also growing demand for herbal alternatives to synthetic Western medicines used in the treatment of cancer, vascular diseases and other illnesses. Chinese consumers are very receptive to pharmaceutical preparations made with herbal ingredients and other natural compounds. The nutraceuticals market is well-developed in China in the form of traditional Chinese medicines, including dry herbal preparations, medicinal teas and confectionaries, and tonic beverages. The market for dietary supplements and natural remedies is reported to be the fastest-growing segment of the Chinese health-care market.

Agricultural Biotechnology

Similarly, there are opportunities in technology transfer and research partnerships in the field of agricultural biotechnology between Canadian and Chinese companies and research centres. Canada has not developed a large number of commercial applications for agricultural biotechnology, however the calibre of research is strong. Canadian research expertise in developing various genetically modified food products, including canola, presents significant opportunities for partnership with Chinese scientists. As well, mutual participation in the recent Human Genome Project has seen additional international co-operation in the field of agricultural biotechnology.

Actual and Planned Projects

China has several projects in the works:

• A medical research zone, comprising leading medical and biomedical technology firms, is being established in Beijing. The zone, which is expected to produce annual outputs of $7 billion by 2010, is attracting multinationals with tax exemption arrangements and heightened intellectual property rights protection. Contact the State Science and Technology Commission for more information.
• Construction of a new pharmaceuticals industrial park began in August 2000 in the Changchun New and Hi-Tech Industrial Development Zone. It is projected that the area, which has already attracted 26 enterprises, will generate gross profits in excess of $71 million and an output value of $34 million in the first year. By 2002, a further 15 enterprises are expected to join and the combined annual output value is expected to rise to $1.1 billion.
• The Human Genome Centre of the Chinese Academy of Science (CAS) and the National Human Genome Centre have facilitated China's involvement, as the sixth participating nation, in the international Human Genome Project. CAS and the National Human Genome Centre have already completed the mapping of 30 million base pairs on the No. 3 chromosome. As part of the Human Genome Project, Chinese geneticists are sequencing 1% of the human genome and are expected to complete their share of the project by June 2001, two years earlier than initially anticipated. CAS's Shanghai Life Science Institute and the National Human Genome Centre have also initiated on-line publication and storage of DNA sequence data. Contact CAS for more information.
• Construction of the Xi'an University Biopharmaceutical Park began recently in Xi'an, the capital of Shaanxi Province. The $108 million project, funded by five universities and the Xi'an High-tech Industrial Development Zone, is intended to provide an industrial base for the production of biotechnology-derived medicine. The park will comprise four segments, including individual research, development, and training bases and an information centre for the bio-pharmaceutical industry.
• The Guangzhou municipal government, in co-operation with Hong Kong's Jinya International Group Ltd. and Guangdong's Xin Luzhou Life Technology Ltd., is developing a biotechnology research park in Guangzhou. Initial investment in the research base, by the joint-venture firm Guangzhou International Biology Island Development Ltd. (formed by Jinya and Xin Luzhou), was reported to be $171.2 million. Total investment is expected to be approximately $1.8 billion, which will be used to support the development and commercialization of biotechnology products.
• In July 2000, Chinese scientists, in collaboration with Danish scientists, began decoding the pig genome. The Chinese government hopes that this project, which follows the completion of the mapping of the human genome, will enable scientists to develop new breeds that will produce more meat and meat with higher protein levels, while generally increasing the efficiency of the pork industry. The research team is also exploring options for xeno-transplantation.
• The State Administration of Exit-Entry Inspection and Quarantine has announced that in addition to improving tests on genetically altered crops, it will ask foreign exporters to voluntarily label any biotech crops that it exports to China.
• The Jilin Provincial Academy of Agriculture is the lead institution for the construction of China's Plant Transgenosis Technology Development and Commercialization Base. Construction began in 1999 and is expected to continue until 2003 with an investment of approximately $54 million. The project includes a number of research installations including greenhouses and test fields throughout the province.

COMPETITIVE ENVIRONMENT

Local Capabilities

Medical Biotechnology and Pharmaceuticals

China is a global leader in crude drug production. From January to May 2000, China exported $1.4 billion worth of raw materials for pharmaceuticals, representing 62.1% of total medical product exports. In 1999, exports of bulk pharmaceuticals were valued at $3.7 billion, accounting for 61.4% of total medical product exports. China's pharmaceutical industry is also characterized by non-branded finished drugs production.

Shanghai, one of China's leading cities for pharmaceutical production, announced in June 2000 that it would invest approximately $897 million in the industry over the next five years in order to develop the sector as a major growth area for the city. Consequently, pharmaceutical output in Shanghai is expected to grow by 20% annually, reaching a projected value of $9 billion by 2005. Shanghai plans to focus on R&D in biopharmaceuticals, herbal preparations and traditional Chinese medicine.

Leading domestic pharmaceuticals firms in China include Harbin Pharma Group and 999 Enterprise Group (Shenzhen Nanfang Pharma Factory). In 1999, these two firms reported sales of $1.2 billion and $832.9 million, respectively. In the same year, 999 Enterprises' profits reached a value of $90.9 million. It is a state-owned company that produces injectable forms of Chinese medicines used in the treatment of coronary heart disease, inflammation and infections. Other key domestic and joint-venture manufacturers include China Medicines Group, Dalian Pfizer and Shanghai Squibb. China Medicines Group's Guangzhou branch has reported strong earnings growth over the last seven years, with sales value estimated at $251.4 million in 1999. Dalian Pfizer and Shanghai Squibb are among the leading suppliers of imported finished drugs.

China produces approximately $540.5 million worth of biochemical drugs per year, comprising 20 different products. China's present strength in biopharmaceutical research draws upon the country's long-standing expertise in traditional organic medicines. One of the nation's leading biotechnology ventures is Sinogen (based in Hong Kong), a subsidiary of the U.S. company Sinogen International Co. Ltd. The company engages in R&D relating to medical biotechnology.

There are more than 200 bioengineering companies in China and 19 locally produced biopharmaceutical drugs on the market. Domestic production of interferon, alone, generated sales of $82 million in 1998. The China Biotechnology Development and Research Centre, based in Beijing, has played a significant role in developing this industry. Individual commissions have also been established in the Chinese Academy of Sciences, the Ministry of Agriculture, the Ministry of Health (MOH), the State Drug Administration (SDA) and provincial governments to support growth and innovation in the sector. Biomedicine has been identified as the sub-sector with the greatest commercial potential. However, China's capacity in this area is still underdeveloped. In 1998, China's biomedicine production amounted to $888 million, a relatively modest figure compared with other global producers, and only four Chinese companies had sales volumes of more than $17.9 million.

Major biopharmaceutical products coming out of Guangdong, Guangzhou include hepatitis B vaccine, interferon, interleukin, G-CSF, GM-CSF and EPO. Shanghai also has succeeded in commercializing several biotechnology-derived products in recent years. Shenzhen is one of the leading cities for biotechnology production.

Agricultural Biotechnology

While the foundation for biotechnology research is strong, commercialization of agricultural biotechnology applications is not as advanced as bio-medical applications. China is keen to bring more products to market but the sector is still considered immature. There are opportunities, therefore, for Canadian companies to participate in joint-venture arrangements and in assisting local R&D centres with further development of biotechnology products.

International Competition

Medical Biotechnology and Pharmaceuticals

Foreign suppliers have been steadily increasing their share of China's pharmaceutical market over the last several years, through exports as well as through joint ventures with local firms. From 1993 to 1998, for example, the share of imports in the total market increased from 11% to 49%. It is expected that foreign presence in the market will increase with the lowering of tariffs and China's accession to the World Trade Organization (WTO).

The leading foreign-invested pharmaceutical company in China is Xian-Janssen. Xian-Janssen, recording sales of $310.8 million and total profits of $63.2 million in 1999. Xian-Janssen is among the top 10 domestic and foreign pharmaceutical manufacturers active in the country. Tianjin SmithKline & French ranked second as a Sino-foreign venture, with sales of $196.2 million in 1999 and total profits of $74.5 million. Tianjin ranked 13th overall in the market. Shanghai Squibb, a Sino-American venture, followed with sales of $157.5 million in 1999. Shanghai Squibb was in 16th position in the total market.

The United States is China's primary supplier of imported biopharmaceuticals, followed by the United Kingdom, Germany, Sweden and Switzerland. Key producers of biotechnology-related equipment and consumables participating in the Chinese market include Hoefer Pharmacia Biotech (Sweden), Boehringer Mannheim (Germany), Brand (Germany), Sanyo Gallenkamp (United Kingdom), Advanced Biotechnologies (United Kingdom) and Eppendorf (Germany). Roche (France) is likely to become a major player after contributing to a human genome research project undertaken by the Chinese National Human Genome Centre in July 2000. The project will involve an initial investment of $438,000 by Roche for technical support and training, and will focus on schizophrenia and diabetes research. Roche is currently distributing pharmaceuticals, vitamins, fine chemicals and other products throughout China through six joint-venture partnerships and a wholly owned enterprise.

Other firms establishing a presence in the market include Unigene Laboratories and Xechem International Inc. Unigene Laboratories (United States) announced on July 27, 2000 that it would enter into a joint venture with China's Shijiazhuang Pharmaceutical Group (SPG) to produce and distribute injectable and nasal calcitonin products in China and other Asian countries. The products, used in osteoporosis treatment, will complement SPG's current line of injectable calcitonins. The products will be manufactured in an Unigene plant in New Jersey and will be stored and distributed from a new facility in China. Xechem International Inc. (New Jersey, United States), through its joint-venture firm Xechem Pharmaceutical China Ltd, has established a nation-wide distribution system in China for its range of biopharmaceutical products. Xechem's wholly owned subsidiary, XetaPharm, will also begin selling its line of nutraceutical products in China, with initial shipments of dietary supplements to Hong Kong.

Agricultural Biotechnology

Commercialization of academic research is essential to ensure growth in the agricultural biotechnology industry, but this can only happen with increased private sector research, or a more concerted effort to transfer technology from universities and government-funded institutes to companies. Currently the only companies that conduct research and commercialize the results are foreign-owned or part of joint partnerships with Chinese companies. For example, Pioneer Hybrid Seeds collaborated with the Cereals Breeding Institute at Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences to field test GM corn varieties, and Advanta worked on canola research in a project with the provincial academy of agricultural sciences in Wuhan. Monsanto Co., Delta and Pine Land (MDP) established a collaborative research program with the Cotton Research Institute and as a result, the majority of genetically modified cotton seeds planted in China are produced through a partnership between MDP and Hebei Provincial Seed Company. Other companies involved in research the Chinese market include DeKalb and Cargill.

Canadian Position

The Canadian biotechnology industry has flourished over the last several years. With almost 500 companies, collective revenues of more than $13 billion and research expenditures of more than $1.3 billion, Canada is poised to become a world leader in biotechnology research and production.

Medical Biotechnology and Pharmaceuticals

In 1999, China imported $7.4 million worth of pharmaceutical products from Canada, a dramatic increase of 668% over 1997 figures. Canadian products still represent less than 1% of the import market, however. Vitamins, medicaments for retail sale (not including hormones or antibiotics) and Chinese herbals accounted for nearly all imports of Canadian pharmaceuticals into China in 1999.

Competitive Advantage through Canadian Government Policies and Initiatives

Fostering growth in the Canadian biotechnology sector is consistent investment in R&D, financial support by private and public agencies, a solid regulatory framework, strong human resources and general public acceptance of biotechnology-derived products. In 1999, the federal government announced a $550 million increase in health research funding over three years, and reinforced biotechnology as an important growth sector for the future. The funding announcement included the creation of the Canadian Institutes of Health Research, $200 million in additional funding for the Canadian Foundation for Innovation, and $150 million in additional funding for Technology Partnerships Canada. This commitment to biotechnology was strengthened in the federal budget of February 2000 with the announcement of $160 million to fund five genomic science centres across Canada, $900 million for university and hospital research infrastructure, and $900 million for additional research chairs at Canadian universities. The Government has also allotted $90 million to strengthen Canada's regulatory capacity in the area of biotechnology.

Canada's positive relations with the world's most prominent economies, as well as its global reputation for scientific excellence, give Canadian companies an advantage in expanding their businesses to overseas markets. Canada is well-positioned to provide joint-venture partnerships and commercialization expertise as well as a broad range of products resulting from Canada's R&D efforts.

Export Development Corporation

Export Development Corporation (EDC) is Canada's official export credit agency, facilitating Canadian trade with over 200 world markets. EDC's first transaction with China took place in 1980 and since this time EDC customers--Canadian companies of all sizes--have concluded over $5 billion worth of business in China. A variety of EDC trade finance services have been employed in the China market. Financing is traditionally offered on a case-by-case basis through lines of credit established with select Chinese banks. Export financing may also be considered via direct buyer loans to creditworthy companies which have Chinese government authority to borrow funds abroad. In addition, EDC export and investment insurance programs provide exporters with protection against a variety of commercial and political risks. Performance security and contract bonding programs also help exporters by providing them with the ability to free up working capital while meeting bonding requirements during the execution of commercial contracts.

Canadian Commercial Corporation

The Canadian Commercial Corporation (CCC) gives Canadian companies access to financing and better payment terms under the Progress Payment Program (PPP). The PPP concept was developed as a partnership between major Canadian financial institutions and the CCC. It enables the exporter's bank to open a project line of credit for the exporter's benefit, based on CCC approval of the project and the exporter's ability to perform. The CCC will also act as a prime contractor on behalf of Canadian small and medium-sized enterprises, giving those businesses increased credibility and competitive advantage.

Program for Export Market Development

The Program for Export Market Development (PEMD) helps Canadian companies enter new markets by sharing the costs of activities that companies normally could not or would not undertake alone, thereby reducing risks involved in entering a foreign market. Eligible costs and activities include market visits, trade fairs, incoming buyers, product testing for market certification, legal fees for international marketing agreements, transportation costs of offshore company trainees, product demonstration costs, promotional materials, and other costs necessary to execute a market development plan. Activity costs are shared on a pre-approved, 50/50 basis.

The PEMD refundable contribution ranges from $5,000 to a maximum of $50,000. Preference is given to companies with fewer than 100 employees for a firm in the manufacturing sector and 50 in the service industry, or with annual sales between $250,000 and $10 million. Other components of the program include international bid preparation (Capital Project Bidding) and, for trade associations, developing international marketing activities for their membership. For additional information visit http://www.infoexport.gc.ca/pemd/menu-e.asp or call 1-888-811-1119.

WIN Exports

WIN Exports, a database of Canadian exporters and their capabilities, is used by trade commissioners around the world and by Team Canada Inc partners in Canada to match Canadian suppliers with foreign business leads, and to share information on trade events. To register your company in WIN Exports or for more information, visit http://www.infoexport.gc.ca/winexports/home_e.html or call 1-888-811-1119.

PRIVATE-SECTOR CUSTOMERS

Medical Biotechnology and Pharmaceuticals

There are currently very few private hospitals in China. Those that do exist, such as Chindex's Beijing United Family Hospital and the International Clinic (AEA) in Beijing, charge fees comparable to North American facilities and cater primarily to expatriates. The Ministry of Health announced in August 2000 plans to permit price-fixing at private hospitals in China, and thus encourage the development of a two-tier health-care system in the country. One tier will comprise China's non-profit hospitals and clinics (which account for the majority of health-care institutions in the country, at present) while the other will be formed by commercial private clinics and Sino-foreign joint ventures.

There are relatively few private-sector pharmacies in China since drug dispensation services are offered at all hospitals, clinics, and health-care establishments in the country. In many remote rural areas, the "peasant doctors" serve as pharmacists, dispensing medications directly to patients. However, the market is expected to open up in the short to medium term, with distribution opportunities, such as pharmacies and retail outlets, increasing for pharmaceutical suppliers. In August 2000, China 999 Enterprise, the country's largest pharmaceutical manufacturer, announced plans to establish a chain of 5000 to 10 000 drugstores across the country that will operate under unified management, distribution and pricing systems.

Selling to pharmaceuticals and bio-pharmaceuticals to private hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies requires local representation, normally in the form of an agent or distributor.

Agricultural Biotechnology

Private-sector customers for agricultural biotechnology include a limited number of companies and research centres working in a field dominated by government companies and agencies. For detailed information on selling agricultural commodities to the Chinese market, please consult the research report entitled, "Primary Agriculture Products and Services Market in China," available from http://www.infoexport.gc.ca.

PUBLIC-SECTOR CUSTOMERS

Medical Biotechnology and Pharmaceuticals

In 1999, there were 314 097 health-care institutions in China; the vast majority of which were publicly managed. Public hospitals in China are divided into five segments: those affiliated with the Ministry of Health, army hospitals, industrial military hospitals, state hospitals and other government hospitals. Of the country's 16 678 hospitals, roughly 23% are operated at the county level or above. Hospitals operated at or above the county level normally are in a stronger position than other health-care establishments to make major equipment purchases, since many of the hospitals operated below county level are small, understaffed and underfunded.

The People's Liberation Army operates more than 300 hospitals throughout China and is a major consumer of high-technology medical products and services, as well as a producer of medical equipment. Many of China's best-equipped hospitals are run by the armed forces. The largest of the military hospitals is Hospital 301 in Beijing.

All hospitals and medical clinics in China also operate on-premise pharmaceutical dispensaries, although the Government is planning to institute regulations separating drug dispensation and direct health-care delivery. It is uncertain when, or if, these regulations will be implemented. Until then, hospitals and clinics will remain the primary purchasers of pharmaceutical products in the public sector.

Agricultural Biotechnology

There is a strong research component to the agricultural biotechnology industry in China presenting opportunities for Canadian companies to seek research partnerships and technology transfer agreements. The Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, in particular, has a variety of specialized research institutes devoted to biotechnology research including genetically modified crop research, animal husbandry and cloning, as well as pure genetics.

Government Procurement Regulations

The Chinese economy is still, to a great extent, structured upon state-run enterprises. Accordingly, the central government is the primary consumer of foreign goods and services. However, local laws and regulations governing public procurement in China are often complex and inconsistent, making foreign participation in open public contracts challenging. China continues to protect domestic suppliers, often affording preferential treatment to domestic bidders on open tenders. The Chinese government also often requires foreign suppliers bidding on local contracts to implement a domestic component to their application (for example, through investment, technology transfer or counter-trade concessions). In general, contracts worth more than $148,000 are put to public tender. Foreign suppliers are normally not permitted to bid on domestic procurement contracts.

MARKET LOGISTICS

Channels of Distribution

Commercial activity is concentrated along China's eastern seaboard, particularly in Shenyang, Beijing, Tianjin, Shanghai and Guangzhou. While there are several large urban centres inland, including Chongqing or Wuhan, infrastructure is generally less developed the further west one travels. Accordingly, exporters are more likely to find distributors and agents covering larger regions in the east.

Foreign exporters usually engage the services of a local agent or distributor to facilitate market entry, although joint ventures with domestic firms, use of trading companies, and establishment of local sales offices are also options. Canadian companies should note that the advertising of medical products and technology in China is strictly controlled by the state. As a result, medical manufacturers are more likely to take advantage of local trade shows (attending two to three per year) to promote their products and services. Trade shows are also a valuable tool for agricultural biotechnology companies to display products and services, to network within the Chinese industry, and to assess potential partners.

Canadian companies are advised to contact the Canadian Embassy in Beijing, the Consulates General in Shanghai or Guangzhou, or the Consulate in Chongqing for a list of reliable and authorized medical product and technology distributors and agents in their respective regions.

Canadian firms seeking to enter the Chinese market should also consult market access reports from Industry Canada's Strategis Internet site at http://strategis.gc.ca, which describe in further detail all potential channels of distribution in China.

Direct Sales

Direct marketing by foreign firms is not permitted in China. Therefore, foreign companies seeking to access the Chinese marketplace must do so through an agent or distributor, joint venture arrangements with Chinese partners, or locally established, wholly owned ventures.

Distributors and Wholesalers

Medical Biotechnology and Pharmaceuticals

Foreign suppliers of medical biotechnology and pharmaceutical products frequently engage the services of a distributor in order to access China's vast and complex commercial arena. Due to the sheer size of the country and the decentralized nature of the Chinese marketplace, distribution networks usually operate on a regional or provincial basis. Several distributors may be necessary to adequately cover a region. Guangzhou, Shanghai and Beijing are regarded as having the most developed distribution centres in the country and are often targeted as a point of entry into the market by first-time exporters to China. Distribution firms in Guangdong, in particular, tend to be more familiar with foreign trade practices and local market needs, and generally have more established distribution networks than firms from other parts of the country.

Exporters will likely be required to provide training for the distributorship's marketing staff, or recruit and train salespeople who are then hired by the distributor. Some companies also choose to enter into joint-venture arrangements with their distributors. Exporters should ensure that the distributors they select have been authorized by the state to market medical products and technology.

At present, China lacks a reliable, comprehensive distribution system for supplying pharmacies and hospitals across the country with pharmaceutical products. In July 2000, the Government announced plans to support the establishment of a modern mechanism for pharmaceutical distribution and marketing in the country. A private-sector based system would replace the country's former dependence on state-owned wholesale outlets for national distribution in this sector. In August 2000, the Government announced intentions to permit the establishment of several Sino-foreign pharmaceutical distribution and retail companies. The joint-venture enterprises would be subject to guidelines determined jointly by the State Economic and Trade Commission and the Ministry of Foreign Trade and Economic Co-operation (MOFTEC), and would be created under the direction of the State Drug Administration. Foreign participants in the joint-venture distribution arrangements must take a minority stake (at a maximum 49% interest) and must demonstrate global sales of more than $3.7 billion in the three years prior to a joint-venture application. Prospective foreign pharmaceutical retailers must show sales of more than $3 billion in each of the three years prior to application to retail in China and must have assets valued at more than $298 million.

Agricultural Biotechnology

Agricultural biotechnology in China has also not yet devised effective distribution methods. Government-owned seed monopolies still control distribution and there do not appear to be effective strategies in place to deal with increased competition as the Chinese market opens to foreign companies.

In December 2000, the National People's Congress' new national planting seeds law came into effect. The Law is expected to bring more order to China's seed industry. The final law is an improvement over previous drafts; however, concerns still remain over how well it will be implemented. The Law includes special requirements for GM seeds: they are subject to a safety evaluation and strict safety control measures defined by the State Council (Article 14); the management method for introducing foreign GM seeds is regulated by the State Council (Article 50); commercial GM seeds must be clearly labelled as GMOs (Article 35). Essentially, seeds from foreign companies will have to pass through an excessive amount of red tape and variety examinations before they will be allowed to enter the commercial market. The Government supports the development of genetically modified crops, but wants to ensure public and environmental safety. as well as economic protection for Chinese farmers and seed companies.

Agents and Sales Representatives

Agents are becoming increasingly involved in the Chinese health industries market. As with distributors, agents do not operate on a national basis. Therefore, exporters will need to hire several agents to cover different geographic regions. There are at least five major regions in China for agent and distributor networks: Guangzhou (south), Shanghai (east), the Beijing-Tianjin region, Central China and Northeast China. Not all agents have import and export authority. Those that do not have this authority often represent trading companies and other enterprises with this capacity in order to facilitate trade activities for foreign companies. Agents are subject to the laws set out by the Bureau of Internal Trade.

Joint Ventures

Most large-scale, foreign health-sector investments in China are a result of joint-venture relationships. Joint ventures afford access to a Chinese partner's established guanxi or business connections and can help the exporter understand and navigate local regulations. Joint ventures can also contribute to popular recognition by association with a well-known Chinese name. Some foreign companies have found it easier to distribute locally produced goods resulting from a joint-venture initiative than to export products to China, since locally manufactured products are not subject to the same stringent trade regulations and registrations. Canadian firms should realize that joint-venture arrangements often require continuous negotiations to ensure that business plans are acceptable to both parties.

In June 2000, MOFTEC issued new guidelines for foreign-invested R&D centres in China, including those involved in biotechnology and pharmaceutical research and development. The new specifications seek to encourage foreign participation and technology transfer in scientific research in China while providing a clear definition of the approved structure of such arrangements. Under the new guidelines, investments in R&D programs must be valued at a minimum of $3 million. In addition, Sino-foreign R&D ventures must be evaluated and approved by the relevant provincial department prior to establishment. Existing joint ventures that are introducing a R&D component to their business must also apply for registration with the relevant provincial authorities. Canadian companies should contact MOFTEC for more information on regulations relating to Sino-foreign R&D projects.

Market-entry Considerations

Although the rapidly developing Chinese economy offers clear opportunities to foreign suppliers in a variety of sectors, Canadian exporters should be aware that a number of challenges to market access remain. The Chinese business environment is quite aptly characterized as complex and variable. Frequent policy changes, strong domestic protection, disregard for intellectual property laws, low profit margins and inefficient channels of distribution are common complaints of foreign participants in the market. The Government-led restructuring currently being undertaken in most sectors is contributing to the complexity of China's trade system.

In the biotechnology sector, high levels of regional segmentation and the novelty of advanced technology pose additional challenges to marketing and distribution of products and services. Consumer preferences and purchasing capacity can vary drastically from region to region and particularly between rural and urban areas. Firms that are successful in the Chinese marketplace recognize the need to adapt their products and services, as well as their marketing strategies, according to these differences.

Successful firms also invest the requisite time and effort into thoroughly researching the market and developing business relationships over the long term. A strong knowledge of the variable aspects of Chinese business culture, and reliable support from local partnerships, can also help ease entry into this potentially lucrative market.

China's Accession to the World Trade Organization

China has made a number of trade-related commitments to the WTO members that are expected to take effect when China accedes to the organization. These include tariff concessions as well as commitments to apply WTO rules relating to subsidies, standards, intellectual property, import licensing, trade-related investment measures and sanitary and phytosanitary measures. China will also be bound by fundamental WTO principles that will require the country to strengthen commercial legal procedures and improve transparency.

China's WTO commitments should help to reduce the risk of doing business in China and encourage increased trade and investment flows. However, most commitments will be phased in over time. In the case of lower tariff rates, most new bound rates will be phased in over five equal, annual increments from the date of accession.

China negotiated a number of tariff rate concessions in its bilateral WTO agreements with member countries. The most favourable concession for any item will apply to all member countries once China joins the WTO.

On November 26, 1999, Canada and China concluded a bilateral agreement providing for improved market access for a range of goods and services.

Suggested Business Practices

Since most business in China is conducted through personal contacts, one of the most important aspects of business dealings in China is guanxi, which translates roughly as "connections." The right guanxi can open doors to vast networks of potential clients and can facilitate understanding (and sometimes sidestepping) of China's diverse regulations and restrictions. While a local agent or partner can attend to guanxi on the foreign partner's behalf, frequent visits to the market by the exporter--and/or establishment of a local office--is advisable for establishing successful, long-term business relationships in China.

Proper respect should be shown to potential clients or other business partners by addressing them by their title (e.g. Mr., Dr.), and by being on time for all meetings. Also as a sign of respect, when exchanging business cards, Canadians should give adequate consideration to the business card presented.

Intellectual Property Rights Protection

As a result of a Memorandum of Understanding on the Protection of Intellectual Property signed between China and the European Union, Japan, Switzerland, Sweden and the United States in 1992 and revised in 1995, products can be patented for a full 20-year term in China. China has also established regulations to protect products awaiting official approval and registration. Patent applications by foreign firms must be made to the Patent Agency of the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade, the Shanghai Patent Office or the Hong Kong-based China Patent Agent. Patent applications and proceedings are published in the Patent Gazette 18 months after initial filing.

Trademarks are valid for 10 years from the approval date and can be renewed upon application. Foreign companies must apply to the State Administration of Industry and Commerce for a trademark.

Canadian companies should be aware that although China has indicated a strong commitment to improving intellectual property rights protection, trademark infractions and theft of patented technology is still prevalent in the country. Accordingly, Canadian exporters may wish to enlist the services of a qualified lawyer familiar with China's intellectual property rights environment.

Import Regulations

Medical Biotechnology and Pharmaceuticals

Pharmaceuticals, including biotechnology-derived drugs, are subject to import duties ranging from 6% to 14%. Imported Canadian products are assigned the minimum tariff rates. An additional 17% value-added tax is levied on all medical products imported into China. Import quotas and licenses are not applied to medical products or biotechnology-based equipment, instruments and consumables.

Although China has made impressive strides in reducing import tariffs and liberalizing restrictions previously imposed on foreign trade, non-tariff import barriers remain a challenge to foreign exporters. Only government-authorized companies may sign trade contracts, just as domestic agents, alone, are permitted to arrange for the importation of a product into China. It is very useful to foster a good working relationship with appropriate customs and import offices to facilitate customs clearance and import approval. Involvement in a joint venture or similar partnership with a domestic firm can also help ease navigation through import regulations.

Products must also be labelled in Chinese to indicate:

• product name;
• manufacturer's name and address;
• primary ingredients, their grades and specifications (for pharmaceuticals);
• expiry date for sale or efficacy (where applicable);
• warnings on potential hazards and their prevention; and
• directions for proper transport and storage of potentially hazardous products (where applicable).

Under the Chinese Interim Law on the Distribution of Prescription and Over-the-Counter Drugs (July 2000), additional requirements are applied to pharmaceuticals. Manufacturers of either prescription or OTC drugs must have a Drug Production Licence and must classify their products as either prescription or OTC. Packaging for prescription drugs sold in China must bear the statement: "May be sold, purchased and used only with a doctor's prescription." Similarly, packaging for high- and medium-risk OTC drugs must include the following: "May be purchased and used only according to a pharmacist's instructions." In accordance with the Interim Law, manufacturers are also prohibited from selling or promoting medical drugs directly to individual consumers.

Agricultural Biotechnology

China signed the Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety of the Convention on Biological Diversity in August 2000, and will likely initiate measures to strengthen inspection and management of imported GMOs. There are currently no limitations on imports of genetically modified agricultural commodities, and no labelling requirements for imported processed foods which may contain GMOs.

Local Standards, Certificates or Registrations

Medical Biotechnology and Pharmaceuticals

In theory, China does not officially restrict imports of pharmaceutical and biomedical products. However, in practice, the market is open only to suppliers of high-priority and high-technology drugs. All pharmaceutical products imported to China must be registered with the SDA, which is responsible for overseeing the sale of both domestically produced and imported drugs. Registration with the MOH may also be required for certain pharmaceutical products. The Directorate of Pharmaceutical Products of the MOH is ultimately responsible for testing of pharmaceuticals and biopharmaceuticals. However, pharmaceutical products are normally required to be tested at several levels (municipal, provincial, national) and are subject to testing criteria similar to those followed by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

Quality certificates, based on national compulsory quality and safety standards, must also be issued for imported pharmaceuticals. Quality certificates are obtainable directly from the State Administration of Import and Export Commodity Inspection (SACI), and can be arranged through a Chinese importer. Since the process can be quite lengthy, Canadian suppliers are advised to arrange for application to the SACI well in advance of exporting their products to China.

On June 9, 2000, the SDA and the MOH jointly released the "Interim Administrative Law on Adverse Drug Reaction (ADR)." Under the Law, any enterprise or organization involved in the production, distribution or dispensation of medical drugs must establish a mechanism for monitoring adverse reactions to these products. Reports on a drug's safety and efficacy must be submitted to established provincial ADR centres on a quarterly basis for a period of five years following marketing of a new drug. If severe or rare reactions to a particular drug are detected, reports must be submitted to an ADR centre within 15 working days of the discovery.

Under a new law governing the advertisement of nutritional supplements, manufacturers and distributors will be prohibited from exaggerating the effectiveness of a given product and citing anecdotal evidence of a product's quality in promotional activities. The MOH is expected to establish further regulations with respect to the promotion of products in this category and to take legal action against manufacturers refusing to comply with the Law. These regulations were established in response to rapid growth in the industry as well as an increase in the number of suppliers using questionable tactics to market parapharmaceutical products in the country in order to take advantage of growing demand. At present, dietary supplements are placed in the same category as health foods in China and are subject to the same regulations.

On August 17, 2000, the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress held a hearing on a draft revision of the Pharmaceutical Administration Law. The Law was initially implemented on July 1, 1995, in an effort to reduce the production and marketing of counterfeit and substandard medical drugs. The revised version, which has yet to be approved, clarifies conditions for the establishment of pharmaceutical manufacturing facilities and expands upon quality control regulations for raw materials and Chinese medicines.

Export Credit Risks, Restrictions on Letters of Credit, Currency Controls

Chinese agents and distributors are generally well-versed in the use of letters of credit and other common export financing mechanisms, the former of which are customarily used for international business transactions in China.

All commercial transactions involving foreign exchange payments in China must be approved by the State Administration of Exchange Control. However, since 1995, foreign trade companies have been able to purchase foreign currency from banks at the official posted rates on the basis of evidence of import contracts. Accordingly, buyers are no longer required to apply for or maintain reserves of foreign currency to initiate foreign trade transactions with an importer.

PROMOTIONAL EVENTS

2001 China Biotech and Pharm Exhibitio
May 2002
Shanghai Mart
Shanghai, China

Organizer:
Modern Biotechnology and Pharmaceutical Industry Office
Shanghai International Modern Exhibition Co. Ltd
Tel.: (86-21) 6361-8702
Fax: (86-21) 6329-5774
Internet: http://www.bio-engine.com

Pharmpak China
July 9-12, 2002 (Annual)
Intex Exhibition Centre
Shanghai, China
Industry/Topic: Medical, pharmaceuticals

Organizer:
Hong Kong Exhibition Services
9th Floor, Shiu Lam Building
23 Luard Rd.
Wanchai, Hong Kong
Tel.: (85-2) 2804-1500
Fax: (85-2) 2528-3103
E-mail: exhibit@hkesmontnet.com.hk
Internet: http://www.hkesmontnet.com.hk

BIO 2002
June 9-12, 2002
Toronto Convention Center
Toronto, Ontario

Organizer:
Biotechnology Industry Organization
1625 K St. NW, Suite 1100
Washington, DC 20006
Tel.: (202) 857-0237
Fax: (202) 857-0244
Internet: http://www.bio.org/events.html .

Bio China 2001
August 22-25, 2001
Guantong Building
Beijing, China

Organizer:
Bio China 2001
Rm 207 Guantong Building
no. 44 Huayuanbeilu, Haidian District
Beijing 100083 China
Tel.: (86-10) 8208-1644
E-mail: bjwrc@public.fhnet.cn.net
Internet: http://china-expo.com/

China Hi-Tech Fair / Biotech 2001
October 11-17, 2001
Shenzhen, China

Organizer:
Coastal International Exhibition Co., Ltd.
Room 3808, China Resources Building, 26
Harbour Road, Wanchai
Hong Kong, China
Tel.: (85-2) 2827-6766
Fax: (85-2) 2827-6870
E-mail: general@coastal.com.hk
Internet: http://www.coastal.com.hk

KEY CONTACTS AND SUPPORT SERVICES

Canadian Government Contacts

Canadian Embassy
19 Dongzhimenwai Dajie
Chaoyang District
Beijing 100600 China
Contact: Philippe Rheault
Tel.: (86-10) 6532-3536
Fax: (86-10) 6532-4072
E-mail: bejing-td@dfait-maeci.gc.ca
Internet: http://www.canada.org.cn

Canadian Consulate in Chongqing
Suite 1705, Metropolitan Tower
Wu Yi Lu, Yu Zhong District
Chongqing 400010 China
Tel.: (86-23) 6373-8007
Fax: (86-23) 6373-8026
E-mail: cdncon@public.cta.cq.cn
Internet: http://www.canada.org.cn

Canadian Consulate General in Guangzhou
Suite 801, China Hotel Office Tower
Liu Hua Lu
Guangzhou 510015 China
Contact: Minster Li
Tel.: (86-20) 8666-0569
Fax: (86-20) 8667-2401
E-mail: ganzu@dfait-maeci.gc.ca
Internet: http://www.canada.org.cn

Canadian Consulate General in Shanghai
Tower 4, Suite 604
Shanghai Centre
1376 Nanjing Xi Lu
Shanghai 200040 China
Contact: Henry Deng
Tel.: (86-21) 6279-8400
Fax: (86-21) 6279-8401
E-mail: shngi@dfait-maeci.gc.ca
Internet: http://www.canada.org.cn

Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade (DFAIT)
125 Sussex Dr.
Ottawa, ON K1A 0G2
Internet: http://www.dfait-maeci.gc.ca

China and Mongolia Division (PCM)
Contact: Cynthia Bernier, Desk Officer
Tel.: (613) 996-6987
Fax: (613) 943-1068
E-mail: cynthia.bernier@dfait-maeci.gc.ca

Market Support Division (TCM)
Contact: Patricia Filteau, Trade Commissioner
Tel.: (613) 995-1431
Fax: (613) 943-1103
E-mail: patricia.filteau@dfait-maeci.gc.ca

Canadian Consulate General in Hong Kong
13th Floor, Tower 1
Exchange Square
8 Connaught Place
Central, Hong Kong
Contact: Houston Wong
Tel.: (852) 2847-7414
Fax: (852) 2847-7441
E-mail: canadatrade.hkong@dfait-maeci.gc.ca
Internet: http://www.canada.org.cn

Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada
International Markets Bureau
930 Carling Ave., 10th Floor
Ottawa, ON K1A 0C5
Contact: Jane Morisset
Tel.: (613) 759-7637
Fax: (613) 759-7506
E-mail: morissetj@agr.gc.ca

Canadian Commercial Corporation (CCC)
Metropolitan Centre
50 O'Connor St., 11th Floor
Ottawa, ON K1A 0S6
Tel.: 1-800-748-8191 or (613) 996-0034
Fax: (613) 995-2121
E-mail: info@ccc.ca
Internet: http://www.ccc.ca

Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA)
59 Camelot Dr.
Nepean, ON K1A 0Y9
Tel.: (613) 225-2342
Fax: (613) 228-6653
E-mail: cfiamaster@agr.gc.ca

Export Development Corporation (EDC)
151 O'Connor St.
Ottawa, ON K1A 1K3
Tel.: 1-888-332-4593 or (613) 598-2500
Fax: (613) 598-6697
E-mail: export@edc4.edc.ca
Internet: http://www.edc-see.ca

Chinese Government Contacts

Beijing City Health Bureau
Huaibaishujie No.2
Xuanwu District
Beijing, China
Tel.: (86-10) 6303-0435
Internet: http://www.bjhb.gov.cn

China Council for the Promotion of International Trade (CCPIT)/China Chamber of International Commerce (CCOIC)
No.1 Fuxingmenwai St.
Beijing 100860 China
Contact: Shen Xuejing or Yang Mei
Tel.: (86-10) 6801-3344 or 6803-4830
Fax: (86-10) 6803-0747 or 6801-1370
E-mail: ccpitweb@public.bta.net.cn
Internet: http://www.ccpit.org

China National Centre for Biotechnology Development
7B, Zao Jun Miao, Haidian Qu
P.O. Box 8118
Beijing 10081 China
Tel.: (86-10) 6225-1955
Fax: (86-10) 6225-4106

China National Chemical Import and Export Corporation
Sinochem Tower, A2 Fuxingmenwai Dajie
Beijing 100045 China
Tel.: (86-10) 6856-8888
Fax: (86-10) 6856-8890
Internet: http://www.sinochem.com

China National Instruments Import and Export Corporation
B19, Beisanhuanzhonglu
Beijing 10029 China
Tel.: (86-10) 6204-4190
Fax: (86-10) 6204-3987

China National Pharmaceutical Supply and Marketing Corporation
Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences
9 Dong Dan San Tia
Beijing 100730 China
Tel.: (86-10) 6513-5844

Ministry of Health (MOH)
1 Xizhimenwai South Road, Xicheng District
Beijing 100044 China
Internet: http://www.moh.gov.cn

China National Institute for the Control of Pharmaceutical and Biological Products
Tel.: (86-10) 6710-7755
Fax: (86-10) 6701-3755

Department of International Co-operation
Tel.: (86-10) 6879-2292
Fax: (86-10) 6879-2295

Department of Laws and Regulations
Tel.: (86-10) 6879-2389
Fax: (86-10) 6879-2387

Division of Medical Instrumentation
Department of Planning and Finance
Tel.: (86-10) 6879-2176
Fax: (86-10) 6879-2175

Ministry of Information Industry
13 West Chang'an Ave.
Beijing 100804 China
Tel.: (86-10) 6602-0540
Fax: (86-10) 6601-1370
Internet: http://www.mii.gov.cn

Ministry of Science and Technology
C15, Fuxinglu
Beijing 100862 China
Tel.: (86-10) 6851-5544
Fax: (86-10) 6851-2594

National Pharmaceutical Foreign Trade Corporation
38A, Beilishi Lu, Xizhimenwai
Beijing 100810 China
Tel.: (86-10) 6831-6572
Fax: (86-10) 6831-6571

State Administration of Commerce and Industry
8 Sanlihe Donglu, Xicheng Qu
Beijing 100820 China
Tel.: (86-10) 6803-2233
Fax: (86-10) 6801-0463

Consulates General of the People's Republic of China
Calgary
1011-6 Ave. SW, Suite 100
Calgary, AB T2P 0W1
Tel.: (403) 264-3322
Fax: (403) 264-6656

Toronto
240 Saint George St.
Toronto, ON M5R 2P4
Tel.: (416) 964-7260
Fax: (416) 324-6468

Vancouver
3380 Granville St.
Vancouver, BC V6H 3K3
Tel.: (604) 734-7492
Fax: (604) 737-0154

Department of Health, People's Liberation Army
Bureau of Drugs and Medical Instruments
22 Fuxing Rd.
Beijing 100842 China
Tel.: (86-10) 6821-6117
Fax: (86-10) 6381-2602

Embassy of the People's Republic of China
515 St. Patrick St.
Ottawa, ON K1N 5H3
Tel.: (613) 789-9608
Fax: (613) 789-1414

Ministry of Agriculture
11 Nongzhanguannanli, Beijing 100026
Tel: (86-10) 6419-3022
Fax: (86-10)6419-3082

Ministry of Foreign Trade and Economic Co-operation (MOFTEC)
No.2 Dong Chang'an Ave.
Beijing 100731 China
Tel.: (86-10) 6708-1526/7
Fax: (86-10) 6708-1513
E-mail: webmaster@moftec.gov.cn
Internet: http://www.moftec.gov.cn

State Council Economic and Trade Office
26 Xuanwu Men Xi St.
Beijing 100056 China
Tel.: (86-10) 6319-3569
Fax: (86-10) 6319-3625

State Customs Administration
6 Jiannei Ave.
Beijing 100730 China
Tel.: (86-10) 6519-5244 or -4114
Fax: (86-10) 6519-4004 or -6020

State Drug Administration (SDA)
38A Beilishi Rd
Beijing 100810 China
Internet: http://www.sda.gov.cn

Department for International Co-operation
Tel.: (86-10) 6831-3344, ext. 0502
Fax: (86-10) 6831-5648

Foreign Product Registration Division
Tel.: (86-10) 6831-3344, ext. 0609
Fax: (86-10) 6831-5649

Medical Device Administration
Tel.: (86-10) 6831-3344, ext. 0616
Fax: (86-10) 6831-5649

Ministry of Science and Technology
C15, Fuxinglu
Beijing 100862, China
Tel.: (86-10) 6851-5544
Fax: (86-10) 6851-2594

State Science and Technology Commission
54 Sanlihe Rd.
Beijing 100862 China
Tel./Fax: (86-10) 801-2594

China Innovation Centre for Life Science/Administration Office of Research and Development of New Drugs
Tel./Fax: (86-10) 6258-8131

Chinese Industry Associations

China Association of Application and Maintenance Technology of Medical Apparatus and Instruments
No. 27, 4th Floor
Taipingqiao Xiaoqu
Fengtai District
Beijing 100073 China
Tel.: (86-10) 6201-6364
Fax: (86-10) 6201-6364

China Association of Medical Biotechnology
422 Datunli, Asian Games Village
Beijing 100101 China
Tel.: (86-10) 6494-1117 ext.3220

China Association for Medical Equipment Industry
14th Floor, 38A Beilishi Rd.
Beijing 100810 China
Contact: Xu Hong, Vice President
Tel.: (86-10) 6831-3344, ext. 1610
Fax: (86-10) 6831-5675

China Chamber of Commerce of Medicines and Health Products Importers and Exporters
8th Floor, 12 Panjiayuan Nanli, Chaoyang Qu
Beijing 100021 China
Tel.: (86-10) 6773-6869
Fax: (86-10) 6773-4768

China Council for Promotion of International Trade (CCPIT)
1 Fuxingmenwai St.
Beijing 100860 China
Tel.: (86-10) 6801-3344 or 6803-4830
Fax: (86-10) 6803-0747 or 6801-1370
E-mail: ccpitwb@public.bta.net.cn
Internet: http://www.ccpit.org

Chinese Medical Association
Department of Foreign Relations
42 Dongsi Xidajie
Beijing 100710 China
Contact: Gu Dezhang, Director
Tel.: (86-10) 6525-0394 or 6513-4885
Fax: (86-10) 6512-3754

China Pharmaceutical Association
A-38 Beilishi Rd.
Beijing 100810 China
Tel.: (86-10) 6831-3601

Commission of Science, Technology and Industry for National Defence
Health Department
4 Bei San Huan Zhonglu
Beijing 100101 China
Contact: Li Chunhui, Director General
Tel.: (86-10) 6675-0456

Red Cross Society of China
53 Ganmian Hutong, Eastern District
Beijing 100010 China
Tel.: (86-10) 6512-4447

Prominent Research Centres

Beijing Medical University
38 Xue Yuan Rd.
Haidian
Beijing 100083 China
Tel.: (86-10) 6209-1333 or-1627
Fax: (86-10) 6201-5681
Internet: http://www.bjmu.edu.cn

Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences
9 Dongdan Santiao
Beijing 100730 China
Tel.: (86-10) 6513-5844
Fax: (86-10) 6512-4876

Chinese Academy of Sciences
52 Sanlihe Rd.
Beijing 100864 China
Tel.: (86-10) 6859-7289
Fax: (86-10) 6851-2458
Internet: http://www.cas.ac.cn/cas.html

Chinese National Institute for the Control of Pharmaceutical and Biological Products
2 Tiantan Xili
Beijing 100050 China
Tel.: (86-10) 6701-7755 or 8094
Fax: (86-10) 6701-3755

Guangdong Provincial Biotechnology Research Institute
48 Miaoqian Zhi St., Dongshan
Guangzhou
Guangdong 520080 China
Tel.: (86-20) 8775-2955
Fax: (86-20) 8775-2955

Jinan University Biotechnology Research Institute
Shipai, Guangzhou
Guangdong 510632 China
Tel.: (86-20) 8522-1983

Zhongshan University Biotechnology Research Centre
Guangzhou
Guangdong 510275 China
Tel.: (86-20) 8418-0296
Fax: (86-20) 8418-5551

Chinese Agricultural Biotechnology Research Centres

Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences (CAAS)
International Co-operation and Industrious Development
30 Baishiqiao Rd., HaiDian District
Beijing 100081 China
Tel.: (86-10) 6218-5181
Fax: (86-10) 6217-4060
E-mail: icd@sun.ihep.ac.cn
Internet: http://www.caas.net.cn (summary in English available at: http://www.caas.net.cn/english.htm)

Biotechnology Research Centre
Tel.: (86-10) 6217-4052
Fax: (86-10) 6217-4142

China National Rice Research Institute
Tiyuchang Rd., Hangzhou
Zhejiang Province 310006 China
Tel.: (86-571) 337-1712
Fax: (86-571) 337-1745

Institute of Agricultural Economics
Tel.: (86-10) 6217-4433
Fax: (86-10) 6217-4142

Institute of Biological Control
Tel.: (86-10) 6217-0582
Fax: (86-10) 6217-4142

Institute of Cotton
Baibi, Anyang City
Henan Province 455112 China
Tel.: (86-372) 292-3711
Fax: (86-372) 292-4952

Institute of Crop Breeding and Cultivation
Tel.: (86-10) 6217-6667
Fax: (86-10) 6217-4142

Institute of Crop Germplasm Resources
Tel.: (86-10) 6218-6658
Fax: (86-10) 6217-4142

Institute of Feed Research
Tel.: (86-10) 6217-3458
Fax: (86-10) 6217-4142

Institute of Vegetable Crops and Flowers
Tel.: (86-10) 6217-3589
Fax: (86-10) 6217-4142

Institute of Oil Crops
Baojian, Wuchang District , Wuhan City
Hubei Province 430062 China
Tel.: (86-27) 681-1431
Fax: (86-27) 681-6451

Fujian Agricultural University
Fuzhou City
Fujian Province 350002 China
Tel.: (86-591) 378-9140
Fax: (86-591) 374-1251

China Agricultural University
No. 2 West Yuan Ming Yuan Rd.
Beijing 100094 China
Tel.: (86-10) 6289-3144
Fax: (86-10) 6289-2713
Internet: http://www.cau.edu.cn/en/hpen.htm

Canadian Biotechnology Associations

Ag-West Biotech
101 - 111 Research Dr.
Saskatoon, SK S7N 3R2
Tel.: (306) 975-1939
Fax: (306) 975-1966
E-mail: agwest@agwest.sk.ca
Internet: http://www.agwest.sk.ca/index1.html

Alberta Biotechnology Association
1150, 10180 - 101 St.
Edmonton, AB T5J 3S7
Tel.: (780) 425-3815
Fax: (780) 423-3893
Contact: Myka Osinchuk
E-mail: myka@bioalberta.com
Internet: http://www.bioalberta.com

BioAtlantech
PO Box 636, Station A
Fredericton, NB E3B 5A6
Tel.: (506) 444-2444
Fax: (506) 444-5662
Contact: John Argall, Executive Director
E-mail: jargall@fundy.net
Internet: http://www.bioatlantech.nb.ca

BioEast
c/o Seabright Corporation Ltd.
Memorial University of Newfoundland
Spencer Hall
220 Prince Philip Dr.
St. John's, NF A1C 5S7
Tel.: (709) 737-4527
Fax: (709) 737-4029
Contact: David King, President
Internet: http://www.mun.ca/seabright/bioeast

BIONova
c/o Innovacorp
101 Research Dr.
PO Box 790
Dartmouth, NS B2Y 3Z7
Tel.: (902) 424-8670
Fax: (902) 424-4679
Contact: Bill Mills, Executive Director
E-mail: bmills@innovacorp.ns.ca

Non-Prescription Drug Manufacturers Association of Canada
1111 Prince of Wales Dr., Suite 406
Ottawa, ON K2C 3T2
Tel.: (613) 723-0777
Fax: (613) 723-0779
E-mail: ndmac@ndmac.ca
Internet: http://www.ndmac.org

Quebec Bio-Industries Association
801 Route 344
PO Box 3158
L'Assomption, QC J5W 4M9
Tel.: (450) 589-4628
Fax: (450) 589-4866
E-mail: info@aqb.qc.ca
Internet: http://www.aqb.qc.ca

BIOTECanada
130 Albert St., Suite 420
Ottawa, ON K1P 5G2
Tel.: (613) 563-8849
Fax: (613) 563-8850
E-mail: info@biotech.ca
Internet: http://www.biotech.ca

British Columbia Biotechnology Alliance
3250 East Mall, Suite 220
Vancouver, BC V6T 1W5
Tel.: (604) 221-3026
Fax: (604) 221-3027
Contact: Theresa McCurry, Executive Director Internet: http://www.biotech.bc.ca

Canada's Research-Based Pharmaceutical Companies
302-1111 Prince of Wales Dr.
Ottawa, ON K2C 3T2
Tel.: (613) 727-1380
Fax: (613) 727-1407
Internet: http://www.canadapharma.org

Canadian Drug Manufacturers Association
4120 Young St., Suite 606
North York, ON M2P 2B8
Tel.: (416) 223-2333
Fax: (416) 223-2425
Internet: http://www.cdma-acfpp.org

Canadian Medical Association
1867 Alta Vista Dr.
Ottawa, ON K1G 3Y6
Tel.: (613) 731-9331
Internet: http://www.cma.ca

Canadian Wholesale Drug Association (CDWA)
5255 Yonge St., Suite 505
Toronto, ON M2N 6P4
Tel.: (416) 222-3922
Fax: (416) 222-8960
Internet: http://www.cwda.com

Toronto Biotechnology Initiative
64 Old Burnhamthorpe Rd.
Etobicoke, ON M9C 3J5
Contact: David Harper
Tel.: (416) 626-1835
Fax: (416) 626-1423
E-mail: davidh@yorkmedical.on.ca

BIBLIOGRAPHY

AFX News. "China, Roche Launch Human Genome Research Project in Shanghai," July 17, 2000.

Asia Pulse. "China's Crude Drug Production Surges Ahead," July 20, 2000.

------. "China's Trade in Medical Products Grow Faster," August 2, 2000.

------. "Chinese Geneticists to Make Breakthroughs in Research," August 1, 2000.

Asian Technology Information Program (ATIP). "Developing Biotech in China (Summary)," February 28, 2000.

Avery, Dennis T. "Bountiful Harvest: Biotechnology Can Feed the World," Asian Wall Street Journal, August 7, 2000.

Business Wire. "XetaPharm Subsidiary Begins Selling Nutraceuticals in China," August 1, 2000.

Canada. Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade. China and Hong Kong Trade Action Plan, 1999.

Canada. Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade, Planning and Co-ordination Division (PCMA) and the Canadian Embassy in Beijing. "China Investment Brief 2000," January 18, 2000.

Chemical Business NewsBase. "Shijiazhuang Pharmaceutical Group, Unigene Laboratories to Form Joint Venture," July 27, 2000.

China Online. "China-China Releases Interim Adverse Drug Reaction Law," July 13, 2000.

------. "China-Interim Laws on the Distribution of Prescription and Over-the-Counter Drugs," July 13, 2000.

------. "China-Pharmaceutical Market 999 Plans Drugstore Chain," August 3, 2000.

Chinavista. "China's Biotech Sector Accelerated," downloaded from http://www.chinavista.com/business/news/
archive/oct99/oct22-01.htm on April 1, 2000.

------. "Guangzhou Gets Ready for a Biotechnology Research Base," downloaded from http://www.chinavista.com/business on April 1, 2000.

ConsultAsia Inc. (with the support of the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade). "China-A Guide to Technology Transfer for Canadian Business," downloaded from http://www.infoexport.gc.ca/docs/view-
e.asp?did=459&gid=15#1 on July 18, 2000.

Deutsche Presse-Agentur. "China Develops GM Potato in Bid to Prevent Disease," August 2, 2000.

Espicom Business Intelligence. "Market News: China-New Urban Medical Insurance," mediSTAT, January 1999.

------. "Market News: China-World Bank Loan," mediSTAT, February 1999.

------. "Market News: China to Develop Medical Research Zone," mediSTAT, June 1999.

------. "Market News: Chinese Health Statistics," mediSTAT, May 2000.

------. "Market News: China-New Hospital Joint Venture Guidelines," mediSTAT, June 2000.

------."Country Profile: China," mediSTAT, July 2000

------. "Market News: In Brief," mediSTAT, July 2000.

Freedonia Group Inc. "World Agricultural Biotechnology: GMOs to 2004," March 2000.

Frost and Sullivan. "New Healthcare Insurance System to Take Effect In 1999," China Medipharm Insights, January 1999.

International Development Research Centre (Canada). "China: Active Projects," downloaded from http://www.idrc.ca on July 26, 2000.

Irish Times. "Chinese Scientists Start Decoding Pig Genome to Produce Better Pork for 1.3 Billion People," July 4, 2000.

Marketletter. "China and Roche Sign Human Genome Accord," July 31, 2000.

------. "China's Changchun Pharma Industrial Park," August 23, 2000.

New China News Agency. "China to Strengthen Control of Genetically Modified Organisms," August 25, 2000.

PJP Publications Ltd. "Janssen Leads Foreign Firms in China," Scrip: World Pharmaceutical News, July 26, 2000.

Pray, Carl E. "Public and Private Collaboration on Plant Biotechnology in China," AgBioForum vol. 2, no. 1, Winter 1999.

South China Morning Post. "Pharmaceuticals: Joint-Venture All-Clear Ahead of WTO Entry," August 9, 2000.

Thomson Financial Services. "China-Drugs and Pharmaceuticals," MarkIntel: Global Trade Intelligence, March 31, 1998.

------. "China's Pharmaceutical Industry," MarkIntel: Global Trade Intelligence, August 1, 1998.

World News Connection. "Shanghai to Invest $602 Million in Pharmaceutical Industry Over Five Years," June 27, 2000.

Xinhua. "Li Lanqing Urges to Push Forward Medical Reforms," July 26, 2000.

------. "State Council Discusses Draft Administrative Laws on Tax, Pharmaceutical," July 26, 2000.

------. "Construction of Bio-Park Starts in Xi'an," September 9, 2000.

Zhang, Qifa. "China: Agricultural Biotechnology Opportunities to Meet the Challenges of Food Production," Agricultural Biotechnology and the Poor: An International Conference on Biotechnology, Convened by: Consultive Group on International Agricultural Research and US National Academy of Sciences, 1999.

OTHER REFERENCE MATERIAL

Useful Internet Sites

Asiagateway.com: http://events.asiagateway.com/China

Canada Business Service Centres: http://www.cbsc.org

Canada's Offices in China: http://www.canada.org.cn

Canadian Commercial Corporation: http://www.ccc.ca

Canadian Food Inspection Agency: http://www.cfia-acia.agr.ca

China-Cities and Provinces: http://www.tdctrade.com/mktprof/china.htm

China Council for the Promotion of International Trade (CCPIT): http://www.ccpit.org

China Daily: http://www.chinadaily.com

China Ministry of Foreign Trade & Economic Co-operation: http://www.moftec.gov.cn

China Stats: http://www.stats.gov.cn/yearbook/indexE.htm

China Online: http://www.chinaonline.com

Note: Daily news site with industry links

ChinaPages, China Business Information Resources: http://www.chinapages.com

ChinaSite: http://chinasite.com

China Today: http://www.chinatoday.com

China Trading: http://www.chinatrading.com

China-Window: http://china-window.com/window.html

eHealthcareAsia (Hong Kong): http://www.ehealthcareasia.com

Note: General health information/health business site. In Chinese and English.

Electronic Journal of Biotechnology: http://www.ejb.org

Embassy of the People's Republic of China in Canada: http://www.chinaembassycanada.org

ExportSource: http://exportsource.gc.ca

Health Canada: http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca

InfoExport: http://www.infoexport.gc.ca

South China Morning Post: http://www.scmp.com/news

Strategis-Biotechnology Gateway: http://strategis.ic.gc.ca/SSG/bo01376e.html

Strategis-Health Industries: http://strategis.ic.gc.ca/sc_indps/
sectors/engdoc /hind_hpg.html

Tradeport: http://www.tradeport.org

Trade Show Central: http://www.tscentral.com

Trade Show News Network: http://www.tsnn.com

1. All monetary amounts are expressed in Canadian dollars, unless otherwise indicated. The conversion rate to Canadian dollars is based on IDD Information Services, Tradeline, February 2001.

2. For contact information regarding key organizations mentioned in this report, see Key Contacts and Support Services.