Russia and China vow to block 'gray customs' channels

China said yesterday it will work with Russia to restrict the so-called "gray customs clearance" system in a bid to reverse a decline in bilateral trade.

Sun Yongfu, director of the department of European affairs under the Ministry of Commerce (MOFCOM), made the announcement yesterday at a press briefing.

"Gray customs" is the name given to the illegal practice of getting items across the border without official customs approval.