A couple weeks ago, we introduced you to the basics of
operating a China Trading company
. As it happens, the firm now has a new client who has all required import & export rights, and wants to import milk powder for infants. To do so, an Import/Export license is not enough. As this is a highly regulated area, additional procedures are required.
According to Chinese regulations, infant formula milk powder is considered a dairy food. As these kinds of foods are critical for people’s health, there are additional requirements which must be met during importation. Official requirements on importing dairy food in China include three examinations and registrations which must be completed before importing any dairy food into China.
The first one should be checking the qualifications and production conditions of the overseas manufacturer producing infant formula milk powder or any other type of dairy products, including Sterilized milk, Fermented dairy products, Milk powder, Cream, Condensed milk, Cheese, and Whey powder. The foreign manufacturers must be registered with Chinese authorities, which will verify the authenticity and accuracy of the incorporation documentation of the foreign manufacturer as submitted in the application documents, but will also confirm the actual on-site conditions of the manufacturing facilities if necessary.
After the foreign manufacturer has passed the examination, the imported goods must be duly inspected. Imported dairy products shall be inspected upon entry into China to confirm compliance with all national standards. Once the imported dairy products are qualified after inspection and quarantine, the goods may be sold within China.
In addition to reviewing the qualification of foreign manufacturer and the quality of the imported goods, Chinese authorities also pay great attention to supervision of the qualifications and the operation of the Chinese importing companies. Dairy product importers are required to have their own qualified technicians and management to address food safety issues and must follow rules and regulations for ensuring food safety. Diary importers must complete a special registration as such prior to importing any diary goods.
Import and sale of dairy products is a complicated procedure in legal terms, but business wise it can be very profitable. The Chinese consumer is increasingly willing to pay a higher cost for the perceived quality benefits of imported dairy products. As a China law firm specialized in such imports, Lehman, Lee & Xu can help you take advantage of this market.