GACC Registration for Food Products: Complete Process and Requirements for Exporting to China

Overview of GACC Registration

China is the second-largest importer globally, offering a vast and lucrative market for foreign products. However, exporting to China requires compliance with stringent regulatory measures, the foremost being approval from the General Administration of Customs China (GACC).

The GACC registration process ensures that imported goods meet Chinese standards, promoting product safety and regulatory compliance. This guide gives important information about the GACC registration process. It covers the needed documents, benefits, fees, and steps to register your products with GACC.

The General Administration of Customs China (GACC) is a government agency. It manages all goods that enter and leave the country. It ensures products comply with Chinese safety, quality, and legal standards. GACC registration is mandatory for many industries, including food, pharmaceuticals, electronics, cosmetics, and more.

The key goals of GACC registration include:

• Ensuring the safety and harmlessness of imported food and other products.
• Safeguarding the quality of the imported merchandise.
• Ensuring compliance with Chinese National Standards (GB Standards)

Product Categories That Need GACC Approval

The products are subjected to GACC registration in India includes:

Certain product categories may require additional registration steps or certification based on the specific type of product, regulatory changes, or market needs.
 

GACC Registration Process:  Step-by-Step Guide

To help you navigate the registration process, here’s a breakdown of the seven stages you’ll need to follow. Depending on your industry and product type, the process may vary slightly.

1. Determine If Registration is Required

Before initiating the registration process, it's essential to confirm if your product requires GACC registration. Different product categories have specific rules. Researching or talking to local customs authorities is important. You can also check the GACC website to learn your registration obligations.

2. Prepare the Original Application and Supporting Documents

Once you confirm that your product requires registration, the next step is to gather the necessary documents. These typically include:

• Product safety and quality certifications (e.g., ISO, HACCP).
• Information about your manufacturing facility.
• Details on the product's compliance with Chinese National Standards (GB Standards).
• We need to translate all documents into Chinese, as 90% of them will require submission in Mandarin.

Ensure that all documents meet GACC’s technical requirements before submission to avoid delays.

3. Product Testing and Certification

Some products, like food and medicine, may need lab testing and certification. This is to ensure they meet GACC’s safety standards. For example, imported food products may need microbiological analysis or other safety checks. After successful testing, the team must submit the results alongside the registration application.

4. GACC Review and Approval

Once your application and documents are submitted, GACC will review everything. Depending on the product type, the review process can take several weeks to several months. GACC may request additional information or conduct on-site inspections during the review phase.

Once GACC is happy with your submission, they will approve your registration. This will let you export your products to China legally.

5. Customs Clearance

After GACC approval, you will get a GACC registration number. You must include this number in all customs documents when exporting to China. This registration number will help make customs clearance easier for Chinese authorities. It ensures your products follow Chinese import laws.

Benefits of GACC Registration

GACC registration offers a range of benefits that can enhance your market access and business operations in China. Here are some key advantages:

1. Legal Compliance

GACC registration makes sure your products follow Chinese rules. This helps you avoid legal issues or fines for not complying. It also minimizes the risk of market disruptions because of regulatory issues.

2. Market Access

China is the largest consumer market in Asia, and GACC registration opens the doors to this vast market. With a registered product, you can enter the Chinese market. This market has over 1.4 billion potential consumers.

3. Faster Customs Clearance

A GACC registration number indicates that your products receive approval for import. This can save time at Chinese customs. It helps reduce delays and speeds up your ability to reach Chinese consumers.

4. Increased Credibility

GACC registration boosts your credibility among Chinese consumers, distributors, and business partners. It shows your commitment to safety, quality, and following Chinese rules. This builds trust and creates new business opportunities.

5. Operational Expansion

Many Chinese distributors and retailers like to work with companies registered with GACC. This shows that the company operates legally and ethically. GACC registration can be a stepping stone to expanding your business network in China.

Fees and Costs Involved in GACC Registration

The cost of GACC registration varies depending on your product type, registration complexity, and additional services required. Here’s an overview of the costs you can expect:

1. GACC Registration Fees

GACC itself does not charge excessively high fees for the registration process. However, there may be additional costs involved, such as:

• Translation Fees: All documents need to be in Chinese, so you may need to pay for certified translation services.
• Agent Fees: You may need to hire a local agent to facilitate the registration process. These agents often charge based on the product or import value.

2. Testing and Inspection Costs

Products requiring testing will incur additional laboratory testing fees. Costs vary depending on the product type. For instance, imported food may require microbiological tests, while electronics may need conformity assessments for electrical safety.

3. On-Site Inspection Fees

If your product needs an on-site inspection by GACC officials, you must pay for their travel and accommodation costs.

4. Renewal Fees

GACC registration is not a one-time process. Depending on your product, you may need to renew your registration periodically. Renewal fees and associated costs will depend on your product category.

Food and Agricultural Products

Under GACC Decree No. 248, foreign food manufacturers must register with GACC to export food products to China. The registration process requires documentation related to food safety management, along with recommendations from your country’s food regulatory authority.

Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices

Pharmaceuticals and medical devices undergo a strict review process by both GACC and the National Medical Products Administration (NMPA). This process may require clinical trial data, safety reports, and efficacy documentation.

PSR Compliance Consultant - GACC Registration

Navigating the complexities of GACC registration can be a challenging process for many companies looking to export to China. Engaging a PSR Compliance Consultant for your GACC registration offers several benefits, ensuring a smooth and efficient process:

1. Expert Guidance: PSR Compliance Consultants specialize in understanding the intricacies of Chinese regulatory requirements. Their expertise prepares your application correctly, avoiding errors that could delay approval.
2. Time and Cost Efficiency: The process of submitting the application and gathering necessary documentation can be time-consuming. PSR Consultants speed up this process. They save you time and money by making sure your application is correct and submitted on time.
3. Navigating Local Requirements: The registration process needs local knowledge. PSR Compliance Consultants help your company work with Chinese authorities. They make sure you meet all local customs, testing, and documentation standards.
4. Ongoing Support: After you register, PSR Consultants can assist you with GACC renewal. They can also help with any changes in regulations that might impact your products.

Working with a PSR Compliance Consultant helps you manage import and export processes. This ensures your products meet all Chinese customs requirements and standards