Hong Kong, Shenzhen sign health inspection MOU

It will ensure the safety and well-being of residents and travellers whilst facilitating customs clearance.

Hong Kong and Shenzhen have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) on entry-exit health inspection and quarantine.

The MOU was witnessed by Hong Kong's Secretary for Health, Prof. Lo Chung-mau, and Vice Minister of the General Administration of Customs of China (GACC), Wang Lingjun.

According to Lo, the two regions have strengthened efforts in disease prevention and streamlined communication on health inspection since the signing of the Co-operation Arrangement for Entry-exit Health Inspection and Quarantine in November 2023,

The MOU aims to deepen cooperation between Hong Kong and Shenzhen, ensuring the safety and well-being of residents and travellers whilst facilitating customs clearance.

Additionally, Lo and Wang discussed measures to ease the cross-boundary flow of special items for scientific research, including measures to facilitate the cross-boundary flow of special items such as human tissue, biological products, and blood products for scientific research. This aligns with the GACC's recently published "Certain Measures on Supporting Comprehensive Deepening Reform & Opening Up of Shenzhen Park of Hetao Shenzhen-Hong Kong Science & Technology Innovation Co-operation Zone."

Lo also cited the importance of efficient cross-boundary collaboration to support the establishment of the Greater Bay Area Clinical Trial Collaboration Platform.

He said this platform, located within the Hetao Shenzhen-Hong Kong Science & Technology Innovation Co-operation Zone, will enhance research and development capabilities and expedite clinical trials across the Greater Bay Area.

"The bureau will work closely with the GACC and Shenzhen Customs District to take forward timely implementation of relevant cross-boundary facilitation policies," he said.