China: FAIRS Country Report
During 2016, China continued issuing numerous new regulations, rules and measures to reflect the requirements introduced by the 2015 Food Safety Law. Most notably, China implemented new registration systems, including registration for grains and oilseeds (AQSIQ Decree 177), registration for live seafood (AQSIQ Decree 183); and introduced registration requirements for infant formula recipes (CFDA Decree 26), foods for special medical purposes (CFDA Decree 24), and health foods (CFDA Decree 22). Food producers at home and abroad continue to examine requirements and seek clarification on new procedures to ensure compliance. This report attempts to capture the key Chinese food standards and provisions that relate to imported products destined for the Chinese market. It also notes changes or modifications to existing standards. However, given China’s current dynamic food regulatory environment, it is highly recommended that U.S. exporters verify the full set of imported requirements with their foreign customers prior to shipping goods to this market.