In what may be a precursor to similar actions by other regulatory agencies, the State Department has authorized the FDA to establish eight full-time positions at US diplomatic posts in China – pending an OK from the Chinese government – as part of the agency’s initiative to expand its presence in the developing world, especially China and India.
"In an age when a border is not a barrier, the globalized economy demands nothing less than heightened regulatory interoperability, information exchange, and cooperation, especially on product quality and enforcement matters," said Murray Lumpkin, FDA’s deputy commissioner for International and Special Programs.
The FDA described its "beyond our borders" initiative as an effort to build stronger cooperative relationships with counterpart agencies around the world and enhance technical cooperation with foreign regulators.
It said permanent overseas offices in China would enable greater access for inspections and interactions with manufacturers.