More oversight urged for liquid food transport

Draft law proposes strict permits, heavy fines to strengthen safety standards

China will strengthen oversight of bulk liquid food transport in response to public concerns over food safety, with draft legislation proposing harsh penalties for violations, according to a proposed amendment under review by the country's top legislature.

The draft revision to the Food Safety Law was submitted on Tuesday to the ongoing session of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress for a first reading.

"Currently, there are more than 16,000 tanker trucks nationwide engaged in the bulk transport of liquid food products on roads, posing significant food safety risks. There is an urgent need to enhance standardized management and address regulatory gaps," Luo Wen, head of the State Administration for Market Regulation, told lawmakers while presenting the draft.