China NMPA Drug Inspection - Guangdong Yifang Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd - Ginseng

The National Medical Products Administration (formerly CFDA) issued an announcement on January 19, 2018, detailing findings from tests conducted by the China National Institutes for Food and Drug Control. The announcement revealed non-compliance involving eight batches of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) decoction pieces, specifically Ginseng, produced by eight companies. These companies included Jiangsu Fuyuan Traditional Chinese Medicine Pieces Co., Ltd., Anhui Xiehecheng Pharmaceutical Pieces Co., Ltd., and six others. The main violation identified was the presence of excessive pesticide residue, causing the products to be substandard according to the Pharmacopoeia of the People's Republic of China (2015 Edition, Part I). In response, relevant provincial food and drug administration departments implemented immediate control measures, such as sealing and seizing the affected products. The implicated companies were mandated to halt sales, cease use, recall the non-compliant products, and undertake necessary rectifications. Furthermore, provincial departments were instructed to investigate these illegal acts in accordance with Articles 73, 74, and 75 of the Drug Administration Law of the People's Republic of China. These departments are required to publicly disclose their handling results within three months and report findings promptly. A defined process was also established for companies to dispute product authenticity, which would initiate further investigation and potentially severe penalties if the products are confirmed to originate from the labeled manufacturer.