The Ministry of Health (MOH) yesterday reiterated that organ transplants for foreign visitors holding tourist visas are prohibited and medical institutions involved in the illegal practice will be dealt with harshly.

China opposes organ transplant for foreign tourists in accordance with international practice, said Mao Qunan, spokesman of the MOH at a press conference.

"Due to the lack of organ donors, shortage of organs is a problem in all countries, not just China. Priority must be given to domestic patients in urgent need of an operation," he said.