This article is authored by Thuong Tran, of FLEET, on behalf of ComplianceGate.com

The Chinese imported food market is one that is expanding rapidly. Some figures put its value at more than 500 billion USD as of 2014. In order to tap into this potential, it is important to know how to navigate the various regulations and licensure requirements. Some of the most common questions about importing canned and other packaged food into the country follow.

1. What permits and licensing requirements must be met?

When importing food into China for the first time, it is necessary to include documents such as a customs declaration, bill of lading and invoice. The original label of the food, as well as its translated version, must be included when a food is being imported into the country for the first time.

The Ministry of Commerce, People’s Republic of China (MOFCOM) does not require packaged foods to have a license if these food items are free from import restrictions.

A complete list of the documents that are necessary for the exporter to prepare includes the following: Continue Reading →