Understanding China's Food Import Framework
The primary regulatory body governing food imports into China is the General Administration of Customs of the People's Republic of China (GACC). As of January 1, 2022, GACC introduced new regulations—Decree 248 and Decree 249—which impose stricter requirements for overseas food manufacturers, exporters, and agents. Under these regulations, all foreign food producers exporting to China must be registered with GACC and have their products appropriately labeled and traceable.
Common food product categories like dairy, meat, aquatic products, health foods, and certain beverages must undergo risk assessment and safety verification procedures. Failure to comply with registration, documentation, and labeling norms can lead to shipment rejection at Chinese ports, financial losses, and reputational damage.
Key Regulatory Requirements
GACC Registration: All food manufacturers, processors, and cold storage facilities exporting to China must obtain a GACC registration number. This number must be clearly printed on the inner and outer packaging of all products.
Labeling Compliance: All food products must comply with China's food labeling regulations, including Chinese-language labels with accurate information about ingredients, allergens, and shelf life.
CIQ Inspection: Before goods are cleared into China, they are subjected to quality checks and inspections by China Inspection and Quarantine (CIQ) authorities to ensure that they meet Chinese food safety standards.
Exporter and Importer Filing: Both exporters and their Chinese importers must complete the “Filing of Import and Export Food Enterprises” in the China Import Food Enterprise Filing Management System.
Country-Specific Protocols: Some products require additional documentation, such as a certificate of origin, phytosanitary certificate, or health certificate, depending on bilateral agreements between China and India.
Risk Mitigation Strategies
To mitigate risks, Indian food exporters should:
Stay updated with current GACC regulations and regularly check for revisions.
Work with certified agents or consultants familiar with China's regulatory system.
Ensure all documentation is accurate and submitted in a timely manner.
Conduct mock audits or internal reviews to ensure compliance readiness.
Develop traceability systems that meet Chinese standards.
How Agile Regulatory Can Help
Agile Regulatory offers complete assistance for businesses looking to export food products to China. With a dedicated team experienced in GACC registration and China-specific regulatory requirements, we help Indian exporters prepare and submit accurate applications, complete product labeling reviews, and stay compliant with CIQ and GACC protocols. Whether you are a small manufacturer or a large exporter, Agile Regulatory ensures that your products meet Chinese import standards—minimizing risk and maximizing trade opportunities. From documentation to regulatory filings, we make the export process smoother, faster, and more reliable.
Conclusion
Food exports to China can be a lucrative venture, but only when backed by full regulatory compliance. By understanding GACC requirements and leveraging the expertise of professionals like Agile Regulatory, Indian exporters can significantly reduce risks and establish a strong presence in the Chinese food market