In Liaoning Province, machines regularly hum in a TCM pharmaceutical company's production workshop. After sorting, drying, and processing, a batch of newly produced TCM ingredients like Codonopsis, Astragalus, and Rehmannia are packed. Having passed inspection, a batch of 12 types of TCM ingredients is ready for export.

As the industry buzzes, local customs authorities have supported pharmaceutical companies with regular briefings on the latest international entry standards, helping facilitate exports and reduce potential losses.

"Exporting traditional Chinese medicine involves numerous international standards and quarantine requirements. We are thankful for the customs authorities' regular briefings on the latest international entry standards. This guidance has helped us mitigate risks associated with heavy metal and pesticide residue issues, thereby reducing potential losses for our company," said Li Li, business director of the pharmaceutical company.

The city of Benxi, located in the mountainous eastern part of Liaoning, has excellent natural conditions for growing medicinal herbs. Several herbs from Benxi are listed as National Geographical Indication Protected Products and are highly favored in international markets.

In recent years, China has been vigorously promoting TCM globally. The practice has become a significant area of cooperation between China and regions around the world such as the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), the European Union, the African Union, the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States, and countries in the Shanghai Cooperation Organization.

As TCM exports rise, the cultivation area and production volume of medicinal herbs are growing, which not only increases local farmers' income but also boosts wider employment.

Currently, Benxi has 300 deep-processing enterprises for TCM, involving 28,000 people in TCM cultivation and processing.