China urges more from Italy on reported olive oil fraud

China's top quality watchdog on Thursday requested the Italian Embassy in China to give more information on Italian enterprises suspected of selling improperly labeled olive oil to Chinese customers.

The General Administration of Quality Supervision, Inspection and Quarantine (AQSIQ) said it has presented a note to the Italian Embassy, requesting confirmation on reports of improperly labeled olive oil.

The AQSIQ note urged Italy to improve quality management and ensure the quality and safety of olive oil exports to China, saying it will closely monitor the situation and has not ruled out further "control measures."

The AQSIQ has issued a warning to local quality supervision and quarantine departments to strengthen inspection and supervision of Italian olive oil exports.

Olive oil importers are urged to follow national food safety standards.

According to media reports, some Italian businesses are selling olive oil that is labeled "made in Italy" but is actually mixed with cheaper oil from other Mediterranean countries.