Three pharmaceutical clinical research organisations (CROs) in Shanghai’s Zhangjiang Hi-Tech Park, including MediTech and Sundia, claim that Customs clearance time for CRO shipments has been shortened from three days to one day on average after implementing a trial scheme that began a month ago.

Recognising that quick and efficient shipment is crucial in the CRO sector, which provides support to pharmaceutical and biotech companies, the Chinese government is paying more attention to creating an attractive environment for them, according to China Sourcing News. On 22 June, Shanghai Pudong Customs, Pudong International Airport Customs and Zhangjiang Group started to implement various measures to speed up Customs clearance processes for the three companies.

As part of the scheme, trained customer service professionals at Shanghai Customs have been assigned to assist CRO companies to ensure a smooth declaration and clearance process. This new Customs clearance model will be implemented for more CRO companies after the trial concludes.