Waigaoqiao Free Trade Zone introduces "green channels" to improve customs clearance. [Photo/waigaoqiaowindows]

According to local reports on March 17, the Waigaoqiao Free Trade Zone of the China (Shanghai) Pilot Free Trade Zone in Pudong New Area in East China's Shanghai developed "green channels" to ensure that imported COVID-19 pills were supplied to the front lines during the fight against the pandemic as soon as possible.

Paxlovid, the imported medicine, is an antiviral pill created by Pfizer and the country's first oral pill for the virus. Adults with mild to moderate symptoms and who have a high risk of developing more severe diseases can take the medication. The aged, as well as persons with chronic kidney or lung issues, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and other high-risk factors, are among these patients.

Hu Xiaoming, deputy director of the Shanghai Customs General Office, said that the application of scientific and technological methods has accelerated the speed of customs clearance and saved enterprises on costs, and "green channels" and special counters were also introduced to improve customs clearance for the imported COVID-19 drugs, ensuring that they can enter the domestic market immediately.

According to a representative of the new drug's domestic agent, the quick customs clearance demonstrates Shanghai Customs' speed and efficiency, and more new pharmaceuticals will be imported through Shanghai ports in the future.