Discussion on assisted reproduction kicks off

The sourcing of gametes and details of donations were the core of the first parliamentary committee meeting discussing the city’s first medically assisted reproduction technology bill.

Yesterday, the 2nd Standing Committee of the parliament commenced its review of the bill. President Chan Chak Mo and Secretary Lam Lon Wai revealed that the first discussion focused mainly on the source of gametes, the regulation of donation, the definitions of surrogacy and embryos, etc.

The two lawmakers pointed out that the bill has no reference as to which entity will be responsible for overseeing gamete donors and donations. For example, committee members were concerned with the nationality, identity and health conditions, among other factors, of prospective donors. The lawmakers also wondered about the times of donations, ages of donors, rights and duties of donors, among other criteria.

It was asked if the government would clarify the details with Executive Regulations in the future.

In terms of surrogacy, the lawmakers also found discrepancies between the proposed provision and the existing provisions in mainland China, Hong Kong and Taiwan. Macau aligns with mainland China in that it bans surrogacy entirely. However, surrogacy is allowed in Taiwan, while only commercial surrogacy is banned in Hong Kong.

In addition, the lawmakers also sought clarification on the definition of an embryo. AL