The Guangdong-Macao In-Depth Cooperation Zone in Hengqin is emerging as a hub for the traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) industry, driven by policy reforms and technology transfer.

At the Traditional Chinese Medicine Science and Technology Industrial Park of Co-operation between Guangdong and Macao (GMTCM Park), 54 innovative TCM products are currently under development or have been registered. Among these, 34 are classified as Class 1 innovative drugs. One diabetes drug was allowed to skip early-stage clinical trials and go directly into Phase III — the first such case under new registration rules. Another treatment for age-related macular degeneration, a condition with no effective cure worldwide, is now in Phase II trials and showing encouraging results.

The park also facilitates the cross-border use of TCM. Ten hospital-made preparations from a Guangdong provincial hospital have been authorized for use at Kiang Wu Hospital in Macao. Under the "Three Macao" certification scheme, which means products are designed in Macao, produced under Macao supervision, and inspected by Macao authorities, several products have been certified, including the first made under the "Hengqin production, Macao supervision" model.

Meanwhile, the University of Macau's research institute in Hengqin acts as a bridge for commercialization. Associate Professor Zhao Qi said the institute helps bring Macao-made TCM products into the mainland market, and assists mainland firms seeking to export. "Many mainland companies want to expand overseas, and we help them understand foreign market needs quickly and accurately," he said.

From accelerated drug approvals to cross-border distribution and two-way technology transfer, the Hengqin Cooperation Zone is steadily opening new channels for traditional Chinese medicine to reach wider markets.

Reporter| Wang Luyao

Editor| Yin Juewen

Video| Zhang Qida

Proofreader| Lai Yuqing