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China's 2027 Export Quota Rules: A Guide for Foreign Founders
China's Ministry of Commerce has released the 2027 export quota volumes and application procedures for certain goods. Foreign founders trading in these products must understand quota requirements to ensure compliance.
China's 2027 Export Quota Rules: A Guide for Foreign Founders
China's Ministry of Commerce (MOFCOM) has published the 2027 export quota volumes and related management measures for specific goods, pursuant to the Foreign Trade Law, the Regulations on the Administration of Import and Export of Goods, and other regulations. For foreign founders operating a company in China that exports these products, understanding the quota system is essential for compliance and smooth customs clearance.
Products Subject to 2027 Export Quotas
The following goods are subject to export quotas in 2027, with the total volumes as specified:
- Licorice and licorice products: 5.2 million kilograms
- Artificially cultivated ephedra for medicinal use: 1.0804 million kilograms
- Live pigs (to Hong Kong and Macau): 1.6054 million head
- Live cattle (to Hong Kong and Macau): 22,000 head
- Live chickens (to Hong Kong): 3 million birds
- Sawn timber: 150,000 cubic meters
- Rush and rush products: 14 million kilograms
Quota Application and Export Licensing Process
Exporters of these goods must apply to MOFCOM for a quota (global or regional). Once the quota is obtained, or upon winning a quota tender, the exporter can apply for an export license. The license is required for customs declaration and clearance.
Application Timeline for 2027 Quotas
For quotas allocated by application (excluding those distributed via tender), the application period runs from November 1, 2026, to November 15, 2026. Applicants must submit materials to the provincial-level commerce department where they are located. These departments will verify the materials and forward them to MOFCOM.
MOFCOM will review the applications and allocate quotas to eligible applicants by December 15, 2026.
Quota Allocation via Tender
Quotas for licorice and licorice products, as well as rush and rush products, are allocated through a bidding process. The specific conditions and procedures for these tenders will be announced separately.
Phosphate Rock and Silver: Quota Suspended, License Still Required
In 2027, the export quota management for phosphate rock and silver will continue to be suspended. However, export license management remains in place. Eligible exporters of phosphate rock or silver can apply for an export license by presenting a valid export contract (for silver under processing trade, relevant provisions apply). The license is required for customs clearance.
Definitions of Provincial Commerce Departments
In this announcement, "provincial-level commerce departments" refers to the commerce departments of provinces, autonomous regions, municipalities directly under the Central Government, cities with independent planning status, and the Xinjiang Production and Construction Corps.
Practical Implications for Foreign Founders
If your China-based company exports any of the listed products, you must obtain the necessary quota and export license before shipping. The application window is short—only two weeks in November 2026—so preparation is key. Ensure your materials are complete and submitted to the correct provincial commerce department. For products allocated by tender, stay tuned for separate announcements on bidding procedures.
For phosphate rock and silver, although quotas are suspended, export licenses are still mandatory. Make sure you have a valid export contract when applying for the license.
Understanding these requirements will help you avoid delays and ensure compliance with Chinese export regulations. For assistance with company registration and ongoing compliance in China, foreign founders can reach out to ChinaMNC.
Call to Action: Foreign founders can contact ChinaMNC on WhatsApp / WeChat at +86 153 1898 8535 for help registering and operating a company in China.
This summary is based on information published by the relevant Chinese government website and is general information, not legal or tax advice.