• 1. Country of Origin: First, you must fully grasp if the country of origin has active trade agreements with China. For example, under the ASEAN Trade Agreement, importers qualify for reduced tariffs by submitting an original Certificate of Origin (COO). Always provide the original COO to Customs for validation when importing.

• 2. Correct HS Code & Tariff Rate: For food items, processing depth and where processing occurred (origin country or third party) are key. Clarify if the product is raw (unprocessed, no additives), processed, or deeply processed—and where that processing took place. Expert classification is necessary to get the right HS code and apply the correct tariff.

• 3. Food Additives: Food additives are heavily regulated. Importers must use CIQ’s classification system to confirm additives meet Chinese standards for both composition and concentration.

• 4. Import Mode Selection: Choose between general trade import and cross-border e-commerce import based on your product’s distribution channels. Tax rates differ greatly between these two—always do a detailed cost analysis before locking in your approach.

• 5. Accurate Declaration Details: Supply precise declaration elements (like product specs or processing methods) to speed up Customs review. Missing or incorrect information can lead to delays or fines.

• 6. Special Documentation Rules:

• For each shipment, verify three pricing factors: Do the foreign exporter and domestic importer have a special trade relationship?

• Invoices and contracts must clearly list the country of origin and loading port.

• To access preferential tariffs, submit an original, officially issued COO.

• 1. Importer Registration: Importers and traders alike must register on CIQ’s official system. You’ll also need the list of overseas manufacturers registered to export to China.

• 2. Label Filing: Pre-packaged foods require label filing on CIQ’s platform and a unique registration number (备案号) prior to import.

• 3. Chinese National Standards (GB): Supply the relevant Chinese National Standards (GB) for your imported goods to prove they meet China’s quality rules.

• 4. Free Sale Certificate: Include a Free Sale Certificate from the exporting country’s authority to confirm the product is market-ready.

• 5. Automatic Import License: Domestic importers need the proper qualifications to apply for and get an Automatic Import License when it’s needed.

• 6. Packaging Declarations: For palletized shipments, packing lists must note pallet count, weight, and fumigation status. Attach a Fumigation Certificate if required.

• 7. Chinese Label Declaration: Submit a written statement verifying that imported pre-packaged food labels meet Chinese regulations.

• 8. Official Health Certificate: Before importing, provide an original Health Certificate from the exporting country’s health agency.

• 9. Official Testing Reports: Supply third-party test reports to confirm safety and quality. For first-time dairy imports, if full testing isn’t complete, submit a Written Undertaking from Dairy Importer—then conduct follow-up testing after arrival.

• 10. Customs Clearance Form: After document checks, get the Import Clearance Form from CIQ.

• 11. Sampling & Testing: Permit CIQ to perform required sampling and lab testing to ensure adherence to standards.

• 12. Health Certificate Issuance: Once all inspections are passed, CIQ issues the final Health Certificate—letting you release the product to the market.

Note: This information is for reference only. Requirements can vary by product type. Always consult professional customs brokers or CIQ directly for personalized guidance.