Zhu pointed out that strengthening market supervision and management is a necessary requirement for establishing the socialist market economy and enforcing the market law and fair play in market competition.

In his talks with the officials, Zhu expressed greetings to employees in the industry at all levels. He praised the work done by the administration, which was promoted to ministerial level in April this year by merging the State Bureau of Quality and Technical Supervision and the State Administration for Entry-Exit Inspection and Quarantine.

Zhu said the newly established administration is part of the government's reform which is merging a series of government departments and administrations to improve their functions.

The premier said the national anti-fake products campaigns in recent months have paid off. But in some local areas, the illegal manufacturing of fake and unqualified goods are still rampant.

He also criticized local governments' role in protecting these activities.

It is a must to rectify the market order and carry out major anti-fake drives on foodstuff, medicine and medical equipment to protect people's health and safety.

Inspection and quarantine of fake entry and exit goods must be strengthened, Zhu noted.

Via strict inspection, no epidemic situation, vaccine and dangerous goods are allowed to go out of or enter into the country.

At the same time, the administration hould take long-term cooperation with the departments of customs, public security and industrial administrations to carry out campaigns against smuggling and illegal imports.

In addition, the administration should take the responsibility to promote the development of major domestic enterprises and export of their famous branded products.

Vice Premier Wu Bangguo said on the same occasion that it is a must to study new situations and new issues under the socialist market economy. Supervision over market, especially fake products jeopardizing people's health, must be reinforced.

The market supervision should also be combined with reform on product mix, he said.

State Councilor Wu Yi, who also joined Zhu in the visit, called for improving methods of supervision and upgrading inspection equipment. Before entering the World Trade Organization, focus should be placed on information technology as well.

Li Changjiang, director of the newly established general administration, made a work report during the talk.

(People's Daily 07/16/2001)