Жарияланды · Kazakhstan

China's 2027 Export Quota Plan: What Foreign Founders Need to Know

China's Ministry of Commerce (MOFCOM) has announced the 2027 export quota volumes and application procedures for certain goods, including live animals, licorice, and lumber. For foreign founders operating or planning to set up a company in China, this update clarifies which exports require quotas, the application timeline, and the licensing process. Here's a concise breakdown of the key points and how they may affect your business.

What This Means for Your China Company

If your China-based company exports any of the goods listed below, you will need to obtain an export quota from MOFCOM before you can export. The quota application window for 2027 opens on November 1, 2026, and closes on November 15, 2026. Applications must be submitted to the local provincial commerce department where your company is registered. This is a critical compliance step if you trade in these products.

Which Goods Are Subject to Export Quotas in 2027?

MOFCOM has set the following export quota volumes for 2027:

• Licorice and licorice products: 5.2 million kilograms
• Artificially planted ephedra for medicinal use: 1.0804 million kilograms
• Live pigs (for Hong Kong and Macau): 1.6054 million head
• Live cattle (for Hong Kong and Macau): 22,000 head
• Live chickens (for Hong Kong): 3 million birds
• Sawn timber: 150,000 cubic meters
• Rush and rush products: 14 million kilograms

These quotas apply to exports worldwide or to specific regions as indicated. If your company exports any of these items, you must secure a quota before proceeding.

How to Apply for an Export Quota

The process involves several steps:

• Submit an application: Your company must apply to MOFCOM for a quota (global or regional). The application period is from November 1 to November 15, 2026. You must submit your application materials to the provincial commerce department in the province where your company is registered.
• Provincial review: The provincial commerce department will verify your materials and forward them to MOFCOM.
• MOFCOM review and allocation: MOFCOM will review all applications and allocate quotas to qualified applicants by December 15, 2026.

Note that for licorice and licorice products, as well as rush and rush products, quotas are allocated through a bidding process. The specific conditions and procedures for bidding will be announced separately.

After Receiving a Quota

Once you have a quota, you must obtain an export license. To do so, present your quota approval document or bidding winning certificate to the licensing authority to apply for an export license. With the export license, you can then complete customs clearance for your exports.

Special Rules for Phosphorus Ore and Silver

In 2027, China will continue to suspend quota management for exports of phosphorus ore and silver. Instead, these exports are subject to export license management. Eligible exporters can apply for an export license by presenting a valid export contract. For silver exported under processing trade, special provisions apply. With the export license, customs clearance can proceed.

Who to Contact

The provincial commerce departments mentioned above refer to the commerce authorities of each province, autonomous region, municipality directly under the central government, cities with independent planning status, and the Xinjiang Production and Construction Corps.

Implications for Foreign Founders

If you are setting up a company in China to engage in exporting these goods, you need to factor in the quota application timeline. Missing the November 2026 window could delay your exports until the next year. Ensure your company is registered in a province with a commerce department that can process your application. Also, verify whether your product falls under quota management or licensing management. For products like phosphorus ore and silver, the process is simpler as no quota is required, but you still need an export license.

If your business involves any of the listed goods, it's advisable to consult with local commerce authorities or legal advisors to ensure compliance with the latest regulations. Proper planning will help you avoid disruptions.

This summary is based on information published by the relevant Chinese government website and is general information, not legal or tax advice.

Need Assistance?

Foreign founders can contact ChinaMNC on WhatsApp / WeChat at +86 153 1898 8535 for help registering and operating a company in China.