Published by ChinaMNC · Luxi

China Announces 2027 Export Quotas for Key Goods: What Foreign Founders Need to Know

China's Ministry of Commerce has released the 2027 export quota volumes and application procedures for certain goods, including agricultural products and live animals. Foreign founders operating in China should understand these rules if their business involves exporting these items.

China Releases 2027 Export Quota Volumes and Procedures

On October 25, 2026, China's Ministry of Commerce (MOFCOM) issued Announcement No. 53 of 2026, setting out the total export quotas for certain goods in 2027 and the associated management measures. The announcement is based on the Foreign Trade Law, the Regulations on the Administration of Import and Export of Goods, and other relevant rules. For foreign founders running a company in China that exports any of the listed products, understanding these quotas and the application process is essential to avoid disruptions.

Which Goods Are Subject to Export Quotas in 2027?

The following goods will have export quotas in 2027, with the specified maximum quantities:

• Licorice and licorice products: 5.2 million kilograms
• Artificially cultivated ephedra for medicinal use: 1.0804 million kilograms
• Live pigs (for Hong Kong and Macau): 1.6054 million head
• Live cattle (for Hong Kong and Macau): 22,000 head
• Live chickens (for Hong Kong): 3 million birds
• Sawn timber: 150,000 cubic meters
• Rush and rush products: 14 million kilograms

These quotas apply to exports worldwide or to specific regions as indicated. Foreign founders whose businesses involve these products should note the exact volumes and plan their export activities accordingly.

How to Apply for an Export Quota

To export any of the above goods, a foreign trade operator (which includes foreign-invested enterprises in China) must first obtain a quota from MOFCOM. The quota can be either a global quota or a regional quota. Once the quota is granted, the operator must apply for an export license from the relevant authorities using the quota approval document or, for quotas allocated via bidding, the bid-winning certificate. With the export license, the operator can then complete customs clearance for the export.

The application process is as follows:

• Application period: For quotas not allocated by bidding, applications must be submitted between November 1, 2026, and November 15, 2026.
• Where to apply: Applicants should submit their materials to the provincial-level commerce department in their locality. This department will verify the materials and forward them to MOFCOM.
• Review and allocation: MOFCOM will review the applications and allocate quotas to eligible applicants by December 15, 2026.

It is important to note that 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 bidding will be announced separately. Foreign founders interested in these products should watch for that announcement.

Special Rules for Phosphate Rock and Silver

For 2027, China will continue to suspend quota management for phosphate rock and silver exports. Instead, these goods will be subject to export license management. Eligible foreign trade operators exporting phosphate rock or silver can apply for an export license by presenting a valid export contract. For silver exported under processing trade, special provisions apply. Once the license is obtained, customs clearance can proceed.

This means that while there is no quota cap for these two goods, an export license is still required, and operators must have a valid contract in place.

What Does "Provincial-Level Commerce Department" Mean?

In the announcement, "provincial-level commerce department" 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. Foreign founders should identify the correct local authority based on where their company is registered or where the export activities take place.

Practical Implications for Foreign Founders

If your China-based company exports any of the goods listed above, you must comply with the quota and licensing requirements. Here are key steps to take:

• Check if your product is covered: Review the list to see if your export product falls under quota management.
• Prepare your application early: The application window is only two weeks (November 1–15, 2026). Ensure all necessary documents are ready.
• Engage with your local commerce department: Establish contact with the provincial commerce department to understand any additional local requirements.
• Monitor bidding announcements: If you deal in licorice or rush products, stay alert for the separate bidding announcement.
• For phosphate rock and silver: No quota is needed, but you must obtain an export license with a valid contract.

Failure to secure a quota or license could result in delays or inability to export. Therefore, timely action is critical.

Conclusion

China's 2027 export quota regime affects several niche but important products. Foreign founders operating in China should assess whether their business is impacted and take the necessary steps to comply. For assistance with company registration, export licensing, or navigating China's regulatory landscape, ChinaMNC is here to help. Contact us on WhatsApp or WeChat at +86 153 1898 8535 for expert guidance.

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