The authorities are planning to open a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) hospital in Russia - the first one outside the country - and launch a range of TCM services in Europe, Africa and Southeast Asia this year, a senior official said yesterday.

The move is aimed at boosting the recognition of TCM in other parts of the world, Wang Xiaopin, deputy head of foreign affairs department from the State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine (SATCM), said.

"TCM service outlets, such as Chinese herb sales, short courses on TCM training and TCM treatment centers will be launched in various countries in Europe, Africa and Southeast Asia in 2009.