Introduction
India is one of the major exporters of agricultural and food products in the international market. Products such as rice, spices, seafood, honey, dairy products, processed foods, fruits, and vegetables are supplied to different countries. China is also an important market for Indian food businesses looking to expand their export operations.
However, exporting food products to China is not as simple as finding an international buyer and arranging shipment. Indian food manufacturers and exporters must follow China's food safety regulations and registration requirements before sending eligible products to the country.
The General Administration of Customs of China (GACC) is responsible for regulating the registration of overseas food manufacturing, processing, and certain storage establishments. Its registration system helps Chinese authorities identify foreign establishments and monitor the safety of imported food products.
In 2026, China introduced important changes through GACC Decree No. 280, which replaced the previous Decree No. 248 from 1 June 2026. These changes affect the registration process, food categories, renewal procedures, and documentation requirements.
If you are an Indian food manufacturer, processor, or exporter planning to enter the Chinese market, understanding the updated GACC registration rules is important before starting your export activities.
What Is GACC Registration?
GACC registration is a mandatory registration requirement for overseas food establishments whose products or activities fall under China's applicable import food registration regulations.
The General Administration of Customs of China manages this system to ensure that foreign food manufacturers follow the required food safety and hygiene standards.
Under this system, eligible overseas establishments must submit their company and manufacturing facility details through China's official registration platform. The information helps Chinese authorities identify the manufacturer and verify whether it meets the applicable requirements.
After successful registration, the establishment receives a unique GACC registration number. This number must be mentioned on food packaging or labels according to the applicable Chinese labelling requirements.
For example, an Indian company manufacturing processed food, spices, honey, or seafood for the Chinese market may need to complete GACC registration before exporting its products.
It is important to understand that GACC registration is related to the overseas food establishment. It does not replace other export-related requirements, product approvals, customs documentation, or food safety obligations.
What Are the New GACC Registration Rules in 2026?
The biggest development in 2026 is the implementation of GACC Decree No. 280, officially titled the Administrative Provisions of the Customs of the People's Republic of China on Registration of Overseas Manufacturers for Export of Food to China.
The new regulation came into effect on 1 June 2026 and replaced Decree No. 248, which had been applicable since January 2022.
The objective of the updated regulation is to improve food safety supervision while making the registration process more efficient for overseas manufacturers.
Here are the major changes Indian exporters should understand.
1. Updated List of Food Categories
Under the previous rules, 18 food categories required recommendation from the competent authority for registration.
The new regulation replaces that list with a revised catalogue of 17 food categories. Businesses dealing with these products must follow the additional inspection and recommendation requirements.
The updated categories include:
Meat and meat products
Casings
Bird's nests and bird's nest products
Bee products
Eggs and egg products
Edible fats and oils
Stuffed wheaten food
Edible grains
Grain flour and malt
Dehydrated vegetables
Seasoning powders
Nuts and seeds
Dried fruits
Special dietary foods
Health foods and dietary supplements
Dairy products
Aquatic products
Indian manufacturers exporting products covered by this list should check the applicable competent authority requirements before submitting their applications.
2. Changes in the Registration Application Process
One of the important changes is the simplification of the registration application procedure.
Under the earlier system, applications were divided into two routes: competent authority recommendation and enterprise application.
Under Decree No. 280, overseas enterprises submit their applications directly through the registration system. However, this does not mean that every manufacturer can complete the process without government involvement.
If the product belongs to one of the 17 specified categories, the manufacturer must submit the required inspection report and recommendation letter issued by the relevant competent authority.
For other eligible food categories, manufacturers can generally apply through the enterprise application process, subject to applicable requirements.
This change makes the application route more consistent while maintaining additional checks for specified food products.
3. Automatic Renewal of GACC Registration
Registration renewal is another area where the new regulation provides more convenience.
Under the updated rules, most eligible establishments can receive automatic renewal for another five years after their existing registration expires.
However, automatic renewal is not available in every situation.
The following cases are excluded:
Manufacturers dealing with meat and meat products.
Manufacturers dealing with bird's nests and bird's nest products.
Establishments undergoing corrective action because of non-compliance.
Establishments affected by a legal suspension of imports from their country or region.
Businesses should not assume that every registration will renew automatically. It is important to check the registration status and applicable renewal conditions.
4. Extended Renewal Application Period
The renewal application period has also been extended.
Previously, manufacturers generally had to submit renewal applications between three and six months before the registration expiry date.
Under Decree No. 280, establishments that require a formal renewal application can apply between three and twelve months before expiry.
This gives businesses more time to review their documents, arrange inspections, and resolve any compliance issues before their registration expires.
5. Additional Requirements for Overseas Cold Storage Facilities
The new regulation also clarifies the registration requirements for certain overseas storage facilities.
Cold storage facilities used for storing food of terrestrial animal origin and aquatic products are included within the applicable registration framework.
This is particularly relevant for businesses involved in seafood exports, frozen meat products, and other temperature-controlled food supply chains.
Indian exporters using third-party cold storage facilities should check whether those facilities require separate GACC registration.
6. Stronger Post-Registration Monitoring
Obtaining a GACC registration number does not mean that a manufacturer can ignore food safety requirements afterwards.
Under the updated rules, GACC can monitor registered establishments and take action if they fail to maintain the required standards.
Registration may be revoked in situations such as serious food safety incidents, false information in applications, failure to complete corrective actions, or misuse of the registration number.
Therefore, businesses should maintain proper hygiene practices, production records, quality control procedures, and food safety documentation even after receiving registration.
Who Needs GACC Registration in India?
Indian businesses involved in manufacturing, processing, or storing food products for export to China may need GACC registration, depending on their activities and the applicable product category.
Some examples include:
1. Food Manufacturing Companies
Businesses producing packaged food, processed food, ready-to-eat products, and other food items should check whether their manufacturing activities require registration.
2. Spice Manufacturers and Processors
India exports various spices and seasoning products. Manufacturers dealing with seasoning powders and other covered products must follow the applicable registration and recommendation requirements.
3. Seafood Processing Companies
Seafood exporters and processing establishments must pay particular attention to GACC registration because aquatic products fall under the specified recommendation category.
4. Rice and Grain Businesses
Companies involved in grain processing and exports should identify the exact product classification and applicable registration route before applying.
5. Honey and Dairy Manufacturers
Honey, other bee products, and dairy products are also included in the revised list. Manufacturers in these sectors should prepare for the relevant competent authority inspection and documentation.
6. Cold Storage Operators
Eligible cold storage facilities used for terrestrial animal-origin foods and aquatic products must also check their registration obligations.
The exact requirement depends on the nature of the product, manufacturing activity, and relevant Chinese regulations.
Documents Required for GACC Registration
Preparing the correct documents is an important part of the GACC registration process. Incomplete information or differences between company records and application details can lead to additional clarification requests.
The documentation requirements depend on the food category and application route.
Generally, businesses should prepare the following:
Businesses should keep their documents accurate and consistent.
For example, if the factory address mentioned in the application is different from the address on the business documents, GACC may ask for clarification.
Similarly, product names and manufacturing activities should be described correctly to avoid selecting an inappropriate registration category.
How to Apply for GACC Registration in India?
Indian food manufacturers can apply for GACC registration through China's official CIFER platform.
The process involves identifying the correct product category, preparing documents, completing the online application, and responding to any questions raised during the review.
Here is a general explanation of the process.
Step 1: Identify the Product Category
First, identify the exact food product you intend to export to China.
This step is important because different food categories may have different registration and documentation requirements.
For example, a seafood processing company and a packaged spice manufacturer may follow different compliance procedures.
Do not select a category only because its name appears similar to your product. Check the actual product classification and manufacturing activity.
Step 2: Check Business and Factory Eligibility
The next step is to review whether your company and manufacturing facility meet the applicable requirements.
Businesses should check their legal registration, production activities, food safety practices, hygiene arrangements, and facility information.
If your product falls under the 17 specified categories, you should also identify the relevant Indian competent authority and its inspection requirements.
Step 3: Prepare the Required Documents
Collect the necessary company, factory, product, and food safety documents.
Make sure all information is accurate and updated. If any documents require translation or additional certification, arrange them according to the applicable requirements.
For products requiring competent authority recommendation, prepare the inspection-related documents and recommendation letter as well.
Step 4: Arrange Competent Authority Inspection
Manufacturers dealing with the specified 17 food categories must follow the applicable inspection and recommendation procedure.
The relevant Indian authority may examine the manufacturing facility, hygiene conditions, food safety management system, and other applicable requirements.
After the necessary checks, the authority can issue the required recommendation documents where the establishment meets the conditions.
Step 5 : Application Review by GACC
After submission, GACC reviews the application and supporting documents.
Depending on the application, the authority may request additional information, corrections, or clarification.
Businesses should respond carefully and provide the required information within the applicable time.
Step 6: Maintain Compliance After Approval
The process does not end after receiving registration.
Manufacturers must continue maintaining food safety standards, proper hygiene, production records, and other applicable requirements.
Any important change in company or facility information should be reviewed to determine whether an update or modification is required in the GACC system.
GACC Registration Fees and Validity in 2026
Many Indian exporters want to know how much GACC registration costs and how long the registration remains valid.
The official CIFER registration platform does not charge a government registration fee for submitting an application.
However, businesses may incur additional expenses depending on their requirements.
These may include:
Professional documentation assistance
Translation of supporting documents
Factory inspection preparation
Compliance-related expenses
Professional application support
Other costs associated with competent authority procedures
The actual cost may differ from one business to another because the product category and documentation requirements are not the same for every manufacturer.
Validity of GACC Registration
Under Decree No. 280, GACC registration is generally valid for five years.
Most eligible establishments can receive automatic renewal for another five years, subject to the applicable conditions.
For establishments that are not eligible for automatic renewal, a formal renewal application should be submitted within the prescribed period.
Which Products Are Not Covered Under the Same GACC Registration Route?
Indian agricultural exporters should understand that not every food product follows the same registration procedure.
Some primary edible agricultural products are handled through separate registration and quarantine arrangements under China's applicable agricultural import regulations.
For example, certain primary agricultural products, including fresh vegetables, oilseeds, dried beans, and raw coffee or cocoa beans, are not included in the same Decree No. 280 registration catalogue.
This does not mean that these products can be exported without registration or approval.
They may require registration through a separate GACC agricultural product or plant quarantine procedure.
Therefore, exporters should confirm the correct registration route with their Chinese importer and the relevant Indian authorities before shipping.
This distinction is especially important for businesses dealing in agricultural commodities and minimally processed products.
Why Is GACC Registration Important for Indian Food Exporters?
China has specific food safety requirements for imported food products. Meeting these requirements helps overseas manufacturers establish their eligibility to supply the Chinese market.
Here are some reasons why GACC registration is important.
Access to the Chinese Market
Registration helps eligible Indian food establishments meet the overseas manufacturer requirements for exporting food to China.
Better Business Opportunities
Having the required registration can help manufacturers approach Chinese importers, distributors, and international buyers with greater confidence.
Regulatory Compliance
GACC registration helps businesses follow the applicable Chinese food safety and import requirements.
Improved Buyer Confidence
International buyers generally prefer working with manufacturers who understand the destination country's regulatory requirements.
Better Export Planning
Completing the registration process before arranging shipments helps businesses reduce the risk of documentation-related problems.
It is important to remember that GACC registration alone does not guarantee customs clearance. Products must also satisfy the applicable product standards, labelling, inspection, quarantine, and import requirements.
Common Mistakes Indian Exporters Should Avoid
Many exporters focus only on completing the online application and overlook other important compliance requirements.
This can create unnecessary delays and additional work.
Some common mistakes include:
Choosing the Wrong Food Category
Every food product should be classified correctly. An incorrect category may result in an inappropriate application route or additional clarification.
Submitting Incomplete Documents
Missing company details, factory information, inspection reports, or recommendation letters can affect the application.
Ignoring Factory Hygiene Requirements
Food safety and sanitation practices are important parts of overseas manufacturer compliance. Businesses should maintain proper facility conditions and records.
Not Checking the Competent Authority Requirements
Products included in the specified list require additional inspection and recommendation documents. Exporters should not assume that direct online submission removes this requirement.
Using Incorrect GACC Numbers
The registration number should be used accurately wherever required. Businesses should avoid sharing or misusing another establishment's registration details.
Ignoring Registration Renewal
Although automatic renewal applies to most eligible establishments, some businesses still need to submit formal renewal applications.
Checking the registration expiry date and renewal eligibility is therefore important.
How PSR Compliance Can Help with GACC Registration
Planning to export food products from India to China? Before starting your export journey, it is important to understand the registration requirements and prepare the necessary documentation.
PSR Compliance provides professional assistance with regulatory documentation, registration applications, compliance requirements, and related approval procedures.
Our team can help businesses understand the applicable GACC requirements, review their documentation, identify the relevant registration route, and coordinate the application process.
We understand that regulatory requirements can be confusing, especially for manufacturers entering a new international market. Getting the right guidance at the beginning can help businesses prepare their applications more effectively.
Whether you are a food manufacturer, processor, or exporter, PSR Compliance can assist you with the documentation and registration process.
Contact PSR Compliance for GACC Registration Assistance
Website: https://www.psrcompliance.com/gacc-registration
Phone: +91 8796104190
Email: support@psrcompliance.com
PSR Compliance – Regulations Simplified.
Frequently Asked Questions About GACC Registration
1. What is GACC registration for Indian food exporters?
GACC registration is a registration requirement for eligible overseas food manufacturers, processors, and certain storage facilities exporting food products to China. It is managed by China's General Administration of Customs.
2. What is the new GACC Decree No. 280?
Decree No. 280 is the revised regulation governing the registration of overseas food manufacturers exporting food to China. It replaced Decree No. 248 and became effective on 1 June 2026.
3. Is GACC registration mandatory for Indian food exporters?
It is mandatory for overseas establishments and activities covered by China's applicable registration requirements. Exporters should identify the exact product category and registration route before shipping.
4. What is the validity of GACC registration?
GACC registration is generally valid for five years. Under the updated rules, most eligible establishments can receive automatic renewal for another five years.
5. What is the official website for GACC registration?
The official China Import Food Enterprises Registration (CIFER) platform is https://cifer.singlewindow.cn.
6. Is there any government fee for GACC registration?
No government registration fee is charged for submitting an application through the official CIFER platform. However, businesses may have to bear expenses related to documentation, inspections, translations, and professional assistance.
7. Can Indian manufacturers apply directly for GACC registration?
Yes. Overseas manufacturers can submit their applications directly through CIFER. However, establishments dealing with the 17 specified food categories must also provide the required inspection report and competent authority recommendation letter.
8. Which food products require competent authority recommendation?
The updated list includes meat, dairy, seafood, honey, eggs, edible oils, nuts, dried fruits, seasoning powders, and other specified categories.
9. Can GACC registration be renewed automatically?
Most eligible establishments receive automatic renewal for another five years. Meat and meat products, bird's nests and bird's nest products, and certain establishments facing compliance or import suspension issues are excluded.
10. Do cold storage facilities need GACC registration?
Certain overseas cold storage facilities used for storing food of terrestrial animal origin and aquatic products are covered by the updated registration requirements.
11. Can an Indian exporter export food without GACC registration?
If the establishment or product falls under the applicable GACC registration requirements, the required registration must be completed before export. Other products may follow separate Chinese registration or quarantine procedures.
12. Does GACC registration guarantee customs clearance in China?
No. GACC registration is one part of the export compliance process. Products must also meet applicable food safety, labelling, inspection, quarantine, and customs requirements.
