On September 8, 2024, the Ministry of Commerce, together with the National Health Commission and the National Medical Products Administration (hereinafter referred to as the "Three Departments"), publicly issued theNotice on Carrying Out Pilot Programs to Expand Opening-Up in the Healthcare Sector(hereinafter referred to as the "Notice"), announcing that,effective immediately, foreign-invested enterprises are permitted to engage in the development and application of human stem cells, gene diagnostic and therapy technologies for product registration and manufacturing in the China (Beijing) Pilot Free Trade Zone, China (Shanghai) Pilot Free Trade Zone, China (Guangdong) Pilot Free Trade Zone, and Hainan Free Trade Port.

This exciting news is very encouraging, marking another significant step forward for China's biopharmaceutical industry on the path of open development. Drawing on our previous participation in legislative consultation work, we will share our insights on this new policy and provide a reference for the industry.