Imported foodVI. Practical queries and suggestions

Enterprise attention! The customs clearance password after implementation of new customs regulations

Attention imported food enterprises! The customs clearance password after implementation of new customs regulations

Hello fellow foreign trade colleagues! As a veteran with 20 years of experience in foreign trade, today I want to talk to you about the Regulations on the Registration of Overseas Food Manufacturers for Imported Food (GACC Decree No. 248) implemented from January 1, 2022. These new regulations concern all overseas enterprises wanting to sell food to China, and we as foreign trade agents must be thoroughly familiar!First, clarify one concept:

• All overseas food production, processing and storage enterprises exporting to China (note: excluding food additives and food-related product enterprises) must obtain registration with GACC. There are no exceptions to this rule - strict implementation is mandatory!Registration validity period:
• 5 years, with renewal application required 3-6 months before expirationLabeling requirements:
• Food packaging must display the China registration numberChange management:

I. Key points of the new registration regulations

Registered information changes must be promptly applied for modification

II. Detailed explanation of two registration methods

Based on my practical experience, registration methods are divided into two categories, and enterprises should choose according to their circumstances:

• These 18 food categories include meat products, dairy products, birds nest, etc. (complete list below). Required preparations:
• Recommendation letter from competent authority
• Enterprise list and application
• Declaration of conformity
• Enterprise identification documents

Registration by competent authority recommendation (applicable to 18 food categories)

• Inspection report
• Corporate identity certificate
• Declaration of conformity

Enterprise self-application registration (foods other than the 18 categories)

According to the explicit reply from customs, the following 18 categories of food must be registered with recommendations from the competent authorities of their countries of origin:

• Meat and meat products
• Casings
• Aquatic products
• Dairy products
• Edible birds nests and birds nest products
• Bee products
• Eggs and egg products
• Edible fats and oils
• Stuffed pasta
• Edible grains
• Industrial products of grain milling and malt
• Preserved and dehydrated vegetables and dried beans
• Condiments
• Nuts and seeds
• Dried fruits
• Unroasted coffee beans and cocoa beans
• Foods for special dietary uses
• Health foods

III. List of 18 food categories requiring official recommendation

Obtaining the registration number is not the end, but the beginning! Based on my experience, companies often stumble in these areas:

• Product category restrictions:The product categories declared during registration define your import scope - adding new categories requires reapplication
• Information changes:Major changes like address or legal representative require re-registration
• Package labeling:Must display the registration number - this is mandatory for customs inspection

IV. Post-registration considerations

Customs has clearly defined 7 red lines - violating any may result in registration revocation:

1. Causing major food safety incidents
2. Repeated detection of safety issues in imported foods
3. Major deficiencies exist in the management system
4. Still non-compliant after rectification
5. Provision of false materials
6. Non-cooperation with customs investigations
7. Improper use of registration numbers

V. 7 circumstances that may lead to registration cancellation

Finally, here are some practical tips to share:

• Query registered enterprises:Log in to the website of the Import and Export Food Safety Bureau of the General Administration of Customs for inquiries
• Plan in advance:The registration process usually takes 3-6 months, so preparation in advance is essential
• Professional assistance:It is recommended to seek assistance from agencies familiar with Chinese regulations

Remember, food safety supervision by customs will only become stricter. Instead of passive response, proactive compliance is better. If you still have questions, feel free to discuss anytime!