Making Chinese traditional glutinous rice balls 'sweetly' go global

As a 20-year foreign trade expert, I've witnessed the rise of Chinese traditional food in international markets. Glutinous rice balls, this traditional snack symbolizing reunion, is conquering overseas palates with its unique charm. But to export this 'sweetness' smoothly, enterprises need professional customs knowledge. Today, I'll comprehensively explain the 'customs code' for glutinous rice ball exports.

Export filing: The 'passport' for enterprises entering international markets

Remember that before 2019,Export foodThe enterprise filing used to go through a long approval process. Now, after the reform, filing has become simple and efficient:

• handled online: Submit applications through the 'Internet + Customs' platform, completion within 3 working days
• Simplification of materialsOnly need to fill in the electronic version of the Application Form for Filing of Export Food Production Enterprises,
• Long - term validityOne - time filing is valid for a long time, greatly reducing the burden on enterprises

I once assisted a Ningbo time-honored glutinous rice ball company complete filing in just 1 day - this is the convenience brought by Customs' 'streamlining administration, delegating powers, and improving services' reform.

Quality system: Ensuring 'safety on the tip of the tongue'

In export business, I often emphasize: 'The quality system is not decoration, but the lifeline of enterprises'. Glutinous rice ball exporters must establish comprehensive quality control systems:

• Six major systemsFrom supplier evaluation to non - conforming product disposal, each link is closely linked
• Full - process traceabilityThe source of raw materials, production process, and inspection records should all be traceable
• Record keepingKeep records for at least 6 months after the expiration date of the shelf - life, and keep records for 2 years if there is no shelf - life

Special reminder: When exporting Ningbo glutinous rice balls containing lard, be sure to confirm the access requirements of the destination country for animal - derived food to avoid return of goods due to ingredient problems.

Customs declaration practice: The 'art' of commodity classification

Glutinous rice balls are classified into 1902.2000.00 (stuffed pasta) in the HS code, but when making customs declarations, pay attention to:

• standardizing declarationsIt is necessary to indicate elements such as product name, ingredient content, and processing method
• Customs Clearance ProcessDeclaration through the 'Single Window' → Customs inspection → Issuance of electronic ledger → Release
• Certificate Preparation: According to the requirements of the destination country, a health certificate, certificate of origin, etc. may be required

I once encountered a case where a company mistakenly classified glutinous rice balls as 'pastries', resulting in high tariffs being levied in the destination country. Proper commodity classification can help enterprises save significant costs.

International standards: The 'golden key' to overcoming trade barriers

Different countries have different requirements for imported food. Companies need to pay special attention to:

• Standard Priority: First, comply with the standards of the importing country, and second, the national standards of China
• 33. Special requirements: Pay attention to halal certification in religious countries, EU regulations on food additives, etc.
• Packaging label: Information of the manufacturing enterprise, production date, batch number, etc. must be marked

It is recommended that companies understand the specific requirements of the destination country through professional institutions or the customs before exporting. For example, when exporting tangyuan to the Middle East, special attention should be paid to halal certification.

Market expansion: The 'internationalization' path of traditional food

According to my observation, tangyuan companies that have successfully expanded into the international market have the following commonalities:

• Product Innovation: Develop varieties that meet local tastes, such as tangyuan with chocolate fillings and fruit fillings
• Cultural export: Tell the Chinese cultural stories behind tangyuan through packaging and promotion
• Channel Construction: Establish stable cooperation with local Chinese supermarkets and Asian food distributors

During the Spring Festival last year, we helped a client successfully enter the Canadian market with tangyuan. The key was to accurately grasp the homesickness of local Chinese and their emphasis on traditional festivals.

Glutinous rice ball exports may seem simple, but they actually involve numerous professional procedures. We hope this guide can help more companies deliver this 'Chinese sweetness' worldwide. Remember: leave professional matters to professionals - when facing complex situations, consider consulting experienced foreign trade agents or customs experts.