Chinese mainland fresh water fish imports must carry proof they are free of malachite green, Hong Kong Secretary for Health, Welfare & Food York Chow said on Monday.

He added that random checks on fish at local wholesale fish markets are also being conducted.

At the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) government's request, Shenzhen authorities have bolstered controls on seafood exports to Hong Kong since Aug. 21. Fish farm registration, and testing for malachite green and other harmful substances has been enhanced.

He said certificates will only be issued to products testing negative for harmful substances.

Inspection of fish farms has also been boosted. Licenses of farms breaching hygiene and food safety rules will be revoked, Chow added.

On radio talk shows on Monday, Chow said Chinese mainland authorities are cooperating, adding it is impossible for all areasto notify Hong Kong of every single food safety case.

Chow hopes regular meetings with nearby local mainland authorities like Guangdong and Shenzhen can be held to discuss thefood safety situation.

Noting the HKSAR government has always randomly checked meat and vegetable imports, Chow hopes the practice can be extended to fish.

The HKSAR government is determined to regulate all seafood, and amend legislation accordingly.

Noting malachite green has been banned in many countries, Chow said its use will be prohibited after the amended Harmful Substances in Food Regulations is gazetted Friday.

"After that, it will be a prohibited substance in food, including live fish. In that case, we can actually exercise our jurisdiction to confiscate fish that contain malachite green," hesaid.

Source: Xinhua