The novel coronavirus was found on packaging of imported frozen beef during a routine examination in Jingmen City, Hubei Province, local officials said on Thursday.

The batch was imported from Argentina via Shanghai port.

The goods arrived in Jingmen on November 15 and were detained before entering the market, officials added.

Disinfection and testing of relevant people and the environment have been ordered, with no positive results so far.

China has stepped up inspection measures on imported frozen products.