(Yicai Global) May 22 -- China aims to strengthen its food safety to reach the Codex Alimentarius international set of food standards by 2020. 

The State Administration for Market Regulation laid out the steps to combat heavy metal pollution, excessive residues of pesticides and veterinary drugs, irregular use of additives as well as fake products, in a document the agency released on May 20. The roadmap extends till 2035. 

Online and offline restaurants should provide the same quality of food and have certified physical locations, the document shows. Those that violate the rules will face harsher punishments, and even be banned from working in the food and beverage sector for life. 

Editor: Emmi Laine