By Special Correspondent

China strengthened its legal framework for public health, epidemic prevention and food safety in 2025 through new legislation and revisions to existing laws, according to a report presented at the national legislative session in Beijing.

The report on the work of the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress states that lawmakers enacted the Law on Public Health Emergency Response and revised the Law on the Prevention and Control of Infectious Diseases to improve the country’s systems and mechanisms for epidemic prevention and response.

According to the report, the new Public Health Emergency Response Law was formulated based on China’s experience in epidemic prevention and control, with the aim of strengthening institutions and mechanisms for responding to public health emergencies and safeguarding the health and safety of the public.

The report notes that the revision of the Law on the Prevention and Control of Infectious Diseases was undertaken to further improve the country’s capacity to prevent and control the spread of infectious diseases and enhance public health governance.

China also revised the Food Safety Law to address shortcomings in the regulatory system and strengthen oversight mechanisms across the food supply chain.

According to the report, the revision of the Food Safety Law focused on improving supervision systems and establishing stronger safeguards to ensure food safety.

The report states that the legislation aims to strengthen regulatory oversight, improve risk management and ensure safer food production, processing and distribution.

Lawmakers also deliberated draft legislation related to public interest protection, including a draft law on procuratorial public-interest litigation designed to safeguard national and public interests.

In addition, draft legislation on national fire and rescue personnel was deliberated in order to provide legal support and protection for emergency rescue forces and improve the country’s emergency response capabilities.

The report notes that lawmakers also advanced legislation aimed at improving public services and social protection systems.

Draft laws on medical security, childcare services and social assistance were deliberated to promote the development of public services that are inclusive, meet essential needs and provide protection for vulnerable groups.

According to the report, these legislative efforts aim to strengthen social governance and enhance public well-being through improved legal frameworks.

The report states that strengthening legislation in areas related to public health, social protection and emergency response remains an important part of China’s broader effort to improve governance and safeguard the well-being of its population.

Credit: INP-WealthPk