China's Traditional Medicine Expands Globally, Eyes Further Growth

Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has expanded its reach globally, now present in 196 countries and regions. Over 100 TCM drugs have been registered in nations involved in the Belt and Road Initiative. The market for TCM is projected to surpass 4.8 trillion yuan this year.

Acupuncture, a key component of TCM, is now recognized by 113 member states of the World Health Organization. Furthermore, a TCM technology committee within the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) has published 119 TCM-related standards.

The focus is on enhancing TCM's global impact. This includes strengthening collaboration with international organizations like the WHO and ISO, and promoting the development of TCM standards. The plan involves establishing more high-quality TCM centers, clinics, and training facilities in key Belt and Road countries and African nations.

Efforts will be made to set up TCM hospitals overseas and ensure that all Chinese medical aid teams include TCM practitioners. A collaborative project with the WHO aims to create an international clinical trial registration platform for traditional medicine. The goal is to foster competitive TCM companies and brands to boost the entire TCM industrial chain.

Domestically, China has a robust TCM infrastructure, with over 100,000 medical facilities and 1.14 million practitioners. Approximately 92% of large public hospitals have TCM clinics, and over 40,000 community healthcare centers and rural clinics offer TCM services.

Significant advancements have been made in TCM research, leading to progress in treating complex diseases. Examples include the use of arsenic trioxide for acute leukemia and the application of TCM principles to address coronary heart diseases.

The integration of traditional and modern medicine is being emphasized, encouraging the interpretation of TCM mechanisms through modern scientific methods. The exploration of traditional medicinal resources will be expanded globally, strengthening cooperation with countries and regions that have diverse climates and ecosystems.