Publicado · Venezuela

China's 2027 Export Quotas: 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. Foreign founders with China-based trading companies that export these products must obtain quotas and export licenses. This guide covers key dates, the application process, and compliance steps to help you prepare.

Key Takeaways for Foreign Founders

China's Ministry of Commerce (MOFCOM) has published the 2027 export quota volumes and management rules for several goods. If your China-registered company exports any of these products, you must obtain a quota and an export license before customs clearance. The application window for most quotas opens on November 1, 2026 and closes on November 15, 2026. Quotas will be allocated by December 15, 2026. Some products—licorice and its products, and rush and rush products—are allocated via a separate bidding process to be announced later. Phosphorus ore and silver are not subject to quotas in 2027 but still require export licenses.

Which Products Are Subject to 2027 Export Quotas?

The following table lists the 2027 export quota volumes for each product. If your company exports these goods, you will need a quota unless otherwise noted.

• Licorice and licorice products: 5.20 million kilograms
• Artificially planted ephedra for medicinal use: 1.0804 million kilograms
• Live pigs (to Hong Kong and Macau): 1.6054 million heads
• Live cattle (to Hong Kong and Macau): 22,000 heads
• Live chickens (to Hong Kong): 3 million birds
• Sawn timber: 150,000 cubic meters
• Rush and rush products: 14 million kilograms

Note that quotas for licorice and its products, and for rush and rush products, are allocated through a bidding process. Details on bidding conditions and procedures will be published separately.

How to Apply for an Export Quota: Step-by-Step

Foreign-invested enterprises (FIEs) and other trading companies in China must follow these steps to obtain a quota and export license.

Step 1: Prepare and Submit Application Materials

Submit your application to the provincial-level commerce department where your company is registered. This is the local counterpart of MOFCOM at the provincial, autonomous region, municipality, or designated city level (including Xinjiang Production and Construction Corps). The application period for quotas (except those allocated by bidding) runs from November 1 to November 15, 2026. Ensure your materials are complete and accurate.

Step 2: Provincial Review and Forwarding

The provincial commerce department will verify your application materials and forward them to MOFCOM. This step is routine but requires your application to be correctly filed with the right local authority.

Step 3: MOFCOM Review and Allocation

MOFCOM will review the applications it receives and allocate quotas to qualified applicants by December 15, 2026. The criteria for qualification are not detailed in this announcement but are likely based on your company's legal status and past export performance.

Step 4: Obtain Quota Certificate and Export License

Once you receive a quota, you will get a quota certificate (or a bidding win certificate for bidding categories). With this certificate, apply for an Export License of the People's Republic of China (export license). The license is issued by the commerce authorities (likely MOFCOM or its local counterparts).

Step 5: Customs Clearance

Present the export license to China Customs to complete export declaration and inspection procedures. Without a valid license, your goods cannot be exported.

Special Rules: Bidding and Exempted Products

Bidding for Licorice and Rush Products

Quotas for licorice and its products, and for rush and rush products, are allocated via bidding. The announcement states that conditions and procedures for bidding will be published separately. If you export these products, monitor MOFCOM announcements for the bidding schedule and requirements.

Phosphorus Ore and Silver: No Quota, But License Required

In 2027, China continues to suspend quota management for phosphorus ore and silver. However, exports of these goods still require an export license. Qualified exporters can apply for a license by presenting a valid export contract. For silver exported under processing trade, special provisions apply. As with quota goods, you must present the export license to customs for clearance.

What This Means for Your China Company Registration and Operations

If you are planning to set up a trading company in China to export these products, you should factor the quota system into your business plan. The application window is short—only two weeks in November 2026. Ensure your company is registered and has the necessary business scope to export these goods before applying. Your company must be a legally registered foreign trade operator (对外贸易经营者) to apply for quotas. This typically requires a business license that includes import/export rights and registration with the commerce authorities.

For existing FIEs, check whether your exports fall under quota management. If so, mark the application dates and prepare your materials in advance. Missing the window could delay your exports for the entire year. Also, note that quotas are allocated based on eligibility criteria that may favor companies with a track record; new companies might face challenges, so consider partnering with experienced local partners or applying early.

Compliance Checklist for Foreign Founders

• Verify product coverage: Confirm whether your export products are on the quota list.
• Ensure business scope: Your company's business license should include the relevant export activities.
• Register as a foreign trade operator: Complete any required filings with commerce authorities.
• Prepare application documents: Gather necessary materials, including company registration documents and export plans.
• Submit to provincial commerce department: File your application between November 1 and 15, 2026.
• Follow up: Track the review and allocation process; contact the provincial department if needed.
• Obtain export license: After receiving quota, apply for the export license.
• Maintain records: Keep quota certificates and licenses for customs clearance.

Conclusion

China's 2027 export quota system affects several agricultural and forestry products. Foreign founders with China-based trading companies should assess whether their products are covered, prepare applications well before the November 2026 window, and ensure their company registration and business scope are in order. For products under bidding, watch for separate announcements. Even for quota-exempt goods like phosphorus ore and silver, export licenses remain mandatory.

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

For assistance with company registration, export licensing, or compliance in China, contact ChinaMNC on WhatsApp / WeChat at +86 153 1898 8535.