COVID- 19 test firms see bright US outlook

▶ Some apply for FDA licenses in advance to take advantage of market

Some Chinese manufacturers of coronavirus test kits said the market prospects for China- US anti- epidemic cooperation are “bright” and they “look forward to making a contribution” to the Biden administration’s fight against the COVID- 19 pandemic.

Virtually none of the Chinese test kit producers have entered the US market previously, partly due to trade tensions and uncertainties on both sides, industry insiders said. But months before Joe Biden took office, some domestic suppliers started applying for the FDA certification, and others saw rising order inquiries from the US, especially in January, as the market sensed the potential opportunity.

However, industry insiders also voiced concern about whether the US clients’ improper use of tests kits could lead to mistrust of Chinese products – even if they have gained FDA certification – and whether the turbulent relationship between the world’s two largest economies could further cast a shadow on their exports.

Guangzhou- based coronavirus test kit maker Wondfo Biotech Co said in a statement sent to the Global Times on Monday that given the US’ plan to clamp down on the deadly virus and the evolution of the situation, demand for the quick coronavirus test kits made by Chinese producers will be driven up.

Compared with nucleic acid tests, it takes about only 15 minutes for antibody detection to yield a result, although the accuracy rate could be lower than the former. Antibody tests can also be conducted by an individual rather than being carried out by professional medical organizations, according to industry analysts.

They noted that the quick testing measure could be applied to massive preliminary screening in the US, where the nationwide coronavirus outbreak has taken the lives of more than 400,000 people and shown no signs of abating to date.

Another Chinese producer of nucleic acid test kits, Maccura Biotechnology Co, said in a statement sent to the Global Times that it has the ability and “sense of responsibility” to supply the US market. Maccura’s daily output of nucleic acid test kits has reached 1 million.