China is dropping a requirement that a number of key virus care products get domestic regulatory approval before export, as long as they are approved in the importing countries.

China had been mulling such extra approval at home since the end of March after several countries complained that Chinese-made test kits were inaccurate. The new ruling applies to products such as tests, medical masks, protective suits, infrared thermometers and ventilators.

Many countries around the world have been scrambling to buy or make enough personal protective equipment for medical staff and care workers at risk of infection, and also tests to trace contagion and identify people who can leave quarantine.