Step-by-Step Process for Exporting to China

Step 1: Obtain Importer-Exporter Code (IEC)

You cannot export from India without IEC.

Documents required:

PAN of business
Aadhaar / Registration proof
Bank details
Address proof

Apply via the DGFT portal.

Step 2: Understand China’s Market Requirements

Research demand, regulatory barriers, and category-specific rules.

Common regulated categories in China:

Agricultural & food items (CIQ inspection mandatory)
Pharmaceuticals & medical devices
Cosmetics (ingredient restrictions + animal testing laws)
Electronics & machinery (CCC certification)
Chemicals (Hazardous Chemical Catalogue)

Check China’s:

Customs Tariff
Market Access Negative List
CIQ (China Inspection and Quarantine) Standards

Step 3: Identify the Correct HS Code & China Tariff Rate

Find the correct HS code for your product, then check:

Import duty rate
VAT applicable in China
Any trade restrictions

Accurate HS classification ensures smooth customs clearance.

Step 4: Prepare Mandatory Export Documentation

China follows strict document scrutiny.

Required documents include:

Commercial Invoice
Packing List
Shipping Bill (from ICEGATE)
Bill of Lading / Airway Bill
Certificate of Origin
Insurance Certificate
China-specific certificates (if applicable)
Test reports / safety certificates

For food/agri exports:

Phytosanitary Certificate
CIQ-compliant labeling
Fumigation certificate

Step 5: Check China-Specific Compliance Requirements

Depending on the product, you may need:

CCC (China Compulsory Certification)

Applicable for:

Electrical products
Electronics
Automotive parts
Household appliances

CIQ Clearance

Mandatory for:

Food
Agricultural products
Chemicals
Minerals

Labeling requirements:

Chinese language label
Ingredient details
Manufacturer details
Production & expiry date
Country of origin: “Made in India”

Step 6: Choose the Best Shipping Method

Sea Freight:

Most common for China due to cost-efficiency for bulk cargo.

Air Freight:

Suitable for urgent or high-value shipments.

Choose Incoterms (FOB, CIF, DDP etc.) as per buyer agreement.

Step 7: File Shipping Bill & Complete Indian Customs Clearance

Your CHA/freight partner will:

File documents through ICEGATE
Clear goods through Indian Customs
Arrange for loading

Once cleared, goods move to the vessel/airline.

Step 8: China Customs & CIQ Clearance

On arrival in ports like Shanghai, Ningbo, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Qingdao, or Tianjin, customs checks:

Invoice & HS Code
Certificate of Origin
CCC compliance
CIQ inspection reports
Labeling accuracy

CIQ may:

Inspect goods
Take samples
Reject or re-label non-compliant goods

Ensure perfect documentation to avoid delays.

Step 9: Delivery to Buyer / Distributor / Marketplace

After clearance, goods reach:

Buyer’s warehouse
Chinese distributor
Processing units
E-commerce sellers (JD.com, Alibaba, Tmall Global)

Maintain communication until delivery confirmation.

Step 10: Claim Export Benefits in India

After successful export, apply for:

RoDTEP rebates
Duty drawback (if applicable)
GST refund under LUT/Bond

Keep export records safe for audits.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Do I need Chinese labeling for every product?

Yes, most retail and food products require Chinese-language labeling.

2. Is CCC certification mandatory?

For many electronics and machinery items, CCC is compulsory.

3. What ports are commonly used for exports to China?

Shanghai, Ningbo, Shenzhen, Guangzhou, Tianjin, Xiamen.

4. Does China require special checks for food products?

Yes, CIQ inspections and phytosanitary certificates are essential.

5. Can Indian sellers export through Chinese marketplaces?

Yes, through cross-border platforms such as Alibaba, JD Worldwide, and Tmall Global.

Final Tips for Exporters to China

Follow Chinese labeling rules strictly.
Use experienced freight forwarders familiar with China trade.
Maintain clear communication with Chinese buyers.
Track regulatory changes regularly (China modifies compliance rules frequently).

Disclaimer

This blog is for informational purposes only. Export regulations, documentation requirements, and China Customs/CIQ rules may change based on government notifications. Readers should consult certified professionals before acting on any guidance provided here. Saving Mantra is not responsible for any decisions made based on this content.

Step-by-Step Process for Export to China