Since the start of 2023, new rules and regulations are set to impact the operations of foreign businesses in China. Among others, China has announced adjustments to export and import administration, such as simplifying registration procedures and lowering tariffs.

In this article, we discuss which goods will be subject to import and export licensing management in 2023 under the updated regulation.

China’s import and export licensing framework
China’s customs authorities will require a trading company to be equipped with proper import and/or export licenses based on the specific category of goods being traded.

While most goods are permitted to be imported and subjected to an automatic licensing system, China does restrict or prohibit some goods from importation. Restricted goods are monitored via quotas or licenses.

The Ministry of Commerce (MOFCOM) and the General Administration of Customs (GAC) release the catalogues of goods that are subjected to automatic import licensing and import licensing on an annual basis, and release catalogues of goods that are prohibited from import from time to time.

For exported goods, those restricted from export are subject to the export licensing management. Among the export-restricted products, some are subject to additional quota management. MOFCOM and GAC jointly release a catalog of export goods requiring licenses on an annual basis.

For technologies, those restricted or prohibited from import are stipulated in the Catalogue of Technologies Prohibited and Restricted from Import in China and those restricted or prohibited from export are stipulated in Catalogue of Technologies Prohibited and Restricted from Export in China. Both catalogues are maintained by MOFCOM.

Moreover, for dual-use items and technologies, China implements a separate licensing system, as stipulated in the Catalogue of Import and Export Licenses for Dual-Use Items and Technologies. Dual-use items and technologies refer to sensitive and potentially dangerous products or technologies capable of dual military and civil application. Dual-use products on the directory include chemicals, radioisotopes, weapon-related items and technologies, commercial cipher codes, etc.

Below, we summarize China’s import and export licensing framework in a table.

Source : china-briefing.com/ For more details