GACC Registration Step by Step Guide for Exporters to China

 GACC Registration refers to the registration process mandated by the General Administration of Customs of the People’s Republic of China (GACC). It is a compulsory requirement for overseas manufacturers, producers, processors, and exporters who wish to export certain categories of products, especially food items, into China.

The objective of GACC registration is to strengthen food safety management, traceability, and quality control for imported products. Without valid GACC registration, Chinese customs authorities may reject or hold shipments at ports, leading to financial losses and reputational damage. Therefore, obtaining GACC registration is a vital compliance step for exporters targeting the Chinese market.

Advantages of GACC Registration

GACC registration offers several advantages for exporters and manufacturers involved in international trade with China.

Key Advantages Include:

  • Legal Market Access
    Mandatory for exporting regulated products to China.

  • Smooth Customs Clearance
    Reduces the risk of shipment detention or rejection at Chinese ports.

  • Improved Product Traceability
    Enhances transparency and safety across the supply chain.

  • Increased Buyer Confidence
    Chinese importers prefer suppliers with valid GACC registration.

  • Compliance with Chinese Regulations
    Ensures alignment with China’s food safety and import laws.

  • Expanded Export Opportunities
    Enables long-term trade relationships with Chinese partners.

GACC registration strengthens exporter credibility and ensures consistent access to the Chinese market.


Who Needs GACC Registration?

GACC registration is mandatory for overseas entities exporting specific products to China.

Entities That Require GACC Registration Include:

  • Food Manufacturers and Processors
    Including dairy, meat, seafood, grains, and processed foods.

  • Agricultural Product Exporters
    Exporters of fruits, vegetables, spices, and plant-based products.

  • Foreign Exporters and Producers
    Companies involved in manufacturing or processing goods destined for China.

  • Storage and Packaging Units
    Facilities involved in storage or packaging of regulated products.

Both manufacturers and exporters may need separate registration depending on product category.


Products Covered Under GACC Registration

China classifies products into different categories based on risk levels.

Common Products Requiring GACC Registration:

  • Meat and meat products

  • Dairy products

  • Seafood and aquatic products

  • Edible grains and cereals

  • Processed foods and snacks

  • Health foods and supplements

  • Spices and condiments

  • Tea, coffee, and beverages

High-risk food categories may require additional approvals or audits by Chinese authorities.


Documents Required for GACC Registration

Accurate documentation is essential for successful GACC registration.

Commonly Required Documents Include:

  • Business registration certificate

  • Manufacturing license

  • Food safety management system documents

  • Product list and HS codes

  • Factory layout and process flow chart

  • Product specifications and labels

  • Export history (if available)

  • Authorized representative details

Incomplete or incorrect documents may lead to application rejection.


GACC Registration Process

The GACC registration process is conducted online through the official GACC portal.

Step-by-Step GACC Registration Process:

  1. Product Category Identification
    Determine whether products fall under general or high-risk categories.

  2. Account Creation on GACC Portal
    Register the exporter or manufacturer on the Chinese customs system.

  3. Document Preparation
    Compile required legal, technical, and safety documents.

  4. Online Application Submission
    Submit the application along with product and facility details.

  5. Review by GACC Authority
    Chinese authorities examine the application and documents.

  6. Clarification or Supplement Request
    Additional information may be requested during review.

  7. Approval and Registration Number Issuance
    Upon approval, GACC issues a registration number.

  8. Labeling Compliance
    GACC registration number must be printed on product packaging.

Professional support helps ensure accuracy and faster approval.


Fees, Timeline, and Validity

GACC Registration Fees

  • No official government fee in many cases

  • Translation, documentation, and consultancy fees may apply

  • Additional costs for audits or inspections (for high-risk products)

Timeline

  • Low-risk products: 15–30 working days

  • High-risk products: 30–90 days (or longer if audits are required)

Timelines may vary based on product type and authority review.

Validity

  • GACC registration is generally valid for 5 years

  • Renewal must be applied for before expiry

  • Any changes in manufacturing details must be updated promptly


Common Challenges in GACC Registration

Exporters often face challenges such as:

  • Language and documentation barriers

  • Incorrect HS code classification

  • Labeling non-compliance

  • Delays in authority response

  • Lack of clarity in Chinese regulations

Expert guidance can significantly reduce errors and delays.


PSR Compliance Assistance for GACC Registration

GACC registration involves technical documentation, regulatory understanding, and coordination with Chinese authorities. PSR Compliance provides complete assistance to exporters seeking hassle-free GACC registration.

PSR Compliance Services Include:

  • Product eligibility assessment

  • Documentation and translation support

  • Online application filing

  • Authority communication and follow-ups

  • Labeling and packaging compliance guidance

  • Renewal and post-registration support

With professional expertise and a structured approach, PSR Compliance helps exporters secure GACC registration smoothly and efficiently.

To know more about GACC Registration and expert assistance, visit: https://www.psrcompliance.com/gacc-registration


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GACC Registration Step by Step Guide for Exporters to China

  GACC Registration refers to the registration process mandated by the General Administration of Customs of the People’s Republic of China ...