GACC REGISTRATION: A COMPLETE GUIDE FOR EXPORTERS

GACC Registration: A Complete Guide for Exporters

GACC Registration: A Complete Guide for Exporters

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Introduction


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The General Administration of Customs of China (GACC) is the key regulatory body overseeing the import of food and agricultural products into China. GACC registration is mandatory for foreign companies exporting food products to China, ensuring compliance with Chinese safety and quality standards. This registration helps maintain food security, traceability, and transparency in the supply chain.

For businesses planning to export food and agricultural goods to China, obtaining GACC registration is a crucial step. In this blog, we will discuss what GACC registration is, why it is important, which products require registration, the application process, required documents, and key compliance requirements.

What is GACC Registration?


GACC registration is an official certification issued by the Chinese Customs Authority, allowing foreign exporters to legally sell their food and agricultural products in the Chinese market. The registration is granted only after a thorough review of the exporter’s facilities, production process, and quality control measures.

The Decree 248 & 249, issued in 2021, strengthened the GACC registration requirements, making it mandatory for many food categories to be registered before exporting to China.

Why is GACC Registration Important?



  • Legal Compliance: Ensures that food products meet Chinese regulatory standards.

  • Market Access: Without GACC registration, food products cannot be imported into China.

  • Safety Assurance: Confirms that the food products meet health and safety regulations.

  • Brand Credibility: Registered products gain trust among Chinese consumers and businesses.

  • Avoiding Rejection & Penalties: Prevents shipment rejection or legal consequences due to non-compliance.


Who Needs GACC Registration?


GACC registration is mandatory for companies exporting food and agricultural products to China. The following categories of businesses must register:

  • Food Manufacturers producing food for direct export.

  • Processing Plants handling raw or semi-processed food products.

  • Storage & Packaging Facilities involved in food processing and export.

  • Traders & Exporters who deal in agricultural and processed food items.


Food Categories Requiring GACC Registration :


According to Decree 248, certain high-risk food categories require recommendation-based registration, while others require self-registration:

Recommendation-Based Registration (High-Risk Products)


The following food products require recommendation from the exporting country’s competent authority:

  • Meat & Meat Products

  • Dairy Products (Milk, Cheese, Yogurt, etc.)

  • Aquatic Products (Seafood, Fish, etc.)

  • Edible Fats & Oils

  • Bee Products (Honey, Royal Jelly, etc.)

  • Egg & Egg Products

  • Stuffed Pastries & Cereal-Based Products

  • Nuts & Seeds

  • Dried Fruits & Vegetables

  • Health Foods & Special Diet Foods


Self-Registration (Lower Risk Products)


Other food categories can be registered directly by exporters via the China Import Food Enterprises Registration (CIFER) System:

  • Beverages & Juices

  • Confectionery & Bakery Products

  • Spices & Condiments

  • Alcoholic Beverages

  • Coffee & Tea

  • Processed Fruits & Vegetables

  • Snacks & Instant Foods

  • Cereals & Pulses


GACC Registration Process :


The registration process for GACC varies depending on the product category. The general steps are as follows:

Step 1: Identify Registration Type


Determine whether the product requires recommendation-based registration or self-registration.

Step 2: Gather Required Documents


Prepare the necessary documents, including factory details, production process, quality control measures, and safety certifications.

Step 3: Submit Application


For high-risk products:

  • The exporter’s country’s competent authority submits the application on behalf of the exporter.

  • Documents are reviewed by GACC officials.


For self-registration:

  • Exporters submit applications via the China Import Food Enterprises Registration (CIFER) System.


Step 4: GACC Inspection (if required)



  • GACC may conduct on-site audits or request additional documents.


Step 5: Approval & Registration Number Issuance



  • Upon successful verification, GACC assigns a unique registration number to the exporter.

  • This number must be included on packaging and labels for customs clearance.


Documents Required for GACC Registration :



  • Business Registration Certificate

  • Factory License/Manufacturing Permit

  • HACCP/ISO 22000 or Other Food Safety Certifications

  • Product Testing Reports

  • Process Flowchart & Manufacturing Details

  • Packaging & Labeling Details

  • Country of Origin Certificate

  • Health & Safety Compliance Documents


GACC Labeling and Packaging Requirements :


Once GACC registration is approved, exporters must comply with Chinese labeling regulations:

  • Chinese Language Labeling: All labels must be in Chinese.

  • GACC Registration Number: Must be printed on product packaging.

  • Manufacturing & Expiry Date: Clearly mentioned in Chinese format (YYYY-MM-DD).

  • Storage Instructions: Specified as per product type.

  • Importer Details: Information of the Chinese importer must be provided.


Renewal & Validity of GACC Registration :



  • GACC registration is generally valid for 5 years.

  • Renewal should be applied for at least 6 months before expiry.

  • Any changes in the manufacturing process, address, or product category must be updated with GACC.


Common Reasons for GACC Registration : Rejection



  • Incomplete documentation.

  • Mismatch between actual facility standards and submitted documents.

  • Failure to meet food safety and hygiene regulations.

  • Issues found during on-site inspection by GACC authorities.

  • Non-compliant labeling and packaging.


Penalties for Non-Compliance :


Failure to comply with GACC regulations can lead to:

  • Import Bans & Product Rejection at Chinese ports.

  • Blacklisting of Exporter by Chinese customs.

  • Heavy Fines & Legal Actions.


How to Ensure Smooth GACC Registration?



  • Work with a professional consultant for documentation and compliance.

  • Ensure all product quality and safety standards are met.

  • Conduct a pre-audit of the manufacturing facility.

  • Stay updated with the latest GACC regulations and guidelines.


Conclusion :


GACC registration is a mandatory process for exporters looking to enter the Chinese food market. With strict compliance regulations and a structured registration system, businesses must prepare their applications carefully to ensure approval. By understanding the requirements, following the application process diligently, and maintaining compliance, exporters can successfully expand their business into China without facing regulatory hurdles.

If you need assistance with GACC registration, our experts can guide you through the process and ensure your products meet all Chinese import regulations.

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