Tsinghua Tongfang Nuctech inked the US$3 million contract with the Australian Customs authority for its X-ray scanner, named THSCAN, lately in Beijing. The deal, which is the product's first contract for export, signals a successful step in the Chinese Government's strategy to translate technological advantages into commercial uses.

Mr. John Hawksworth, national director of the Australia Customs Service, said they had chosen Chinese products after an extensive analysis of similar products produced by manufacturers worldwide.

They believe the purchase of China's inspection system demonstrates Australia's commitment to fight smuggling, particularly narcotics. The product will enable Australian Customs to check out more illegal imports, and increase the speed of inspections, Hawksworth said.

The Australians bought two sets of systems from the Tsinghua Tongfang Nuctech company this time. The machines will be installed at the ports of Sydney and Melbourne Customs.

According to the Nuctech Company, the THSCAN system employs the world's most advanced electron linear accelerator as its radiation source. It represents the current trend of the international radiation imaging technology, satisfying the rising demands of various countries for safety and environmental protection.

China owns wholly the independent intellectual property rights of the scanner system, which has been put into operation in 13 domestic customs with 28 sets installed. (China Daily)