HONG KONG -- A Hong Kong firm has announced the global launch of an antigen rapid test kit developed by a mainland tech company able to identify COVID-19 in 20 minutes.

He Qi Group Foundation (Greater Bay Area) Company said it has reached an agreement with Beijing Jinwofu Bioengineering Technology Company to jointly carry out the global launch of the test kit. The use of the kit was approved by the national authorities in November 2020.

Rapid and accurate diagnosis of COVID-19 is critical to curbing its spread and improving treatment, He Qi Group said.

Hong Kong lawmaker and chairman of He Qi Group Ma Fung-kwok said the introduction of the rapid test kit will improve anti-epidemic efforts and create conditions for economic recovery.