Customs offices nationwide had implemented expedited advance clearance for 81 shipments of quake relief materials and rescue personnel as of 3 p.m. on Monday, the General Administration of Customs (GAC) said.

The materials and rescuers were from 17 countries including Russia, the Republic of Korea, Pakistan, Singapore, Spain, England, the Netherlands, Italy, France, India and Japan.

The shipments included international maritime satellite telephones and other telecommunications equipment, diesel generators, helicopter spare parts and medical equipment.

(Xinhua News Agency May 19, 2008)