Beijing, China — In an effort to formalize cooperation and collaboration between the natural health products industries in the United States and China, the United Natural Products Alliance (UNPA) and the China Nutrition and Health Food Association (CNHFA) signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) agreement in a ceremony held at the U.S. Embassy in Beijing.

UNPA and CNHFA signed the MOU to promote and exchange research and technology, as well as to promote cultural exchange and the safe and sustainable development of the natural and health products industry in both countries. The two organizations agreed to mutually communicate about regulations and policies to strengthen Sino-U.S. health products registration, regulation, market access and other aspects of regulatory policy.

“We are honored to be working closely with our colleagues at CNHFA to further our mutual interests to responsibly grow the natural health products industries in both countries,” said Loren Israelsen, UNPA president. “This MOU agreement will stimulate further collaboration and the exchange of ideas, resources, delegation visits and developing business opportunities for both sides.”

“We believe the MOU will promote cooperation and communication between both associations and industries. We hope through information exchange and projects, it will encourage industry development and regulatory harmonization,” said Liu Xuecong, secretary-general of CNHFA.

Liu Xuecong; Bian Zhenjia, CNHFA president and former deputy commissioner of the China State Food and Drug Administration; and Scott Pozil, counselor of the U.S. Embassy in China; attended the signing ceremony, along with members of the China State Food and Drug Administration International Cooperation Department.

UNPA organizes its key objectives and work plans through its MOU partnerships with 13 U.S. and international trade and non-profit organizations, academic institutions and other groups that bring expertise, influence and trusted reputations. By laying out its joint objectives via an MOU, UNPA is able to serve the needs of its members and its industry stakeholders with greatest effect and efficiency.