BEIJING - China's food and drug safety watchdog on Wednesday pledged to fight illegal production and adulteration in the traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) market.

Yan Jiangying, spokeswoman for the China Food and Drug Administration (CFDA), said at a press conference that the administration will launch a half-year crackdown on illegal drug-related production and operations starting from this month, with a special target on violations in the TCM market and online drug sales.

The CFDA will inspect drug manufacturers and businesses, TCM markets, clinics and online drug stores to eliminate possible violating behaviors, Yan said.

It will also combat illegal renting and lending of drug-related licenses, she added.

Moreover, according to Yan, the administration will establish more regulations and mechanisms during the campaign to intensify regular management in relevant fields and better control the drug safety risks.

Mao Zhenbin, head of the CFDA's inspection bureau, said the CFDA will cooperate with the Ministry of Public Security and will made information on cases of violation public during the campaign.