China published its Regulations on the Management of Lunar Samples aiming to improve scientific research and international cooperation.

Developed by the China National Space Administration, the document has nine chapters and 37 clauses, governing the storage, management and use of lunar samples brought back by the country’s Chang’e 5 mission.

According to the regulations, the samples will be divided into four categories – permanent storage, backup storage, research, and public-interest purposes.

The samples’ distribution will be in accordance with international treaties China has signed or taken part in.