Chinese government mouthpiece Global Times criticises authorities over vaccine scandal
Newspaper, known for its strident pro-Beijing views, says there should be more openness in the media to help avoid miscommunication over such issues
A Chinese state media publication has criticised the government for putting harsh restrictions on the press following revelations of a scandal involving improperly stored or transported vaccines worth 570 million yuan (HK$680 million).
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“Negative information is unavoidable,” Sun wrote. “In the internet era, publishing accurate information online is the best way to prevent inaccurate and exaggerated messages.
“The government could have done a better job in guiding the media to quell the sweeping panic, but they chose the convenient way of putting harsh restrictions on media instead of seeking efficient interactions.”
The article appeared after a scandal came to light involving the sale of expired and improperly stored vaccines since 2010, which was reported in February.
China’s drug watchdog on trail of black market vaccines
