China prohibits illegal trade in eggs and sperm

China's Ministry of Health has issued a ban on the sale of eggs, sperm, zygotes and embryos, and the introduction of new regulations on reproductive support (ART).

A statement from the ministry said it had set up a committee of experts working on reviewing and discussing licensing for fertility assistance and sperm bank operations.

'China prohibits trading in all forms of eggs, sperm, zygotes and embryos and will not allow any illegal collection of eggs and sperm. Violators will be severely punished, 'the statement said.

The Ministry of Health has also issued regulations on the management of reproductive support technologies, establishment of sperm banks and procedures for obtaining certificates. Also according to the announcement, 88 organizations have been allowed to provide fertility support treatment in China, and 10 organizations have been approved to establish sperm banks.

T.VY