China issues on Friday a new regulation on the supervision and management of civil nuclear security facilities, which specifies standards and licensing procedures for these facilities.

The regulation also makes stipulations on imports and exports of civil nuclear security facilities and legal responsibilities for loopholes in their management and supervision, according to the State Council, China's cabinet.

The regulation will help guarantee the security operation of civil nuclear facilities, prevent nuclear accidents, ensure the health of people working for nuclear plants and protect the environment, the State Council said.

The regulation, with 62 articles in eight chapters, will take effect on Jan. 1, 2008.