For pet owners who want the best nutrition for their furry companions, imported pet food has become a popular choice. However, importing pet food into China involves navigating a complex regulatory landscape. This guide breaks down the essential requirements and procedures to help ensure compliance.
1. Regulatory Framework: Understanding the Rules
China's comprehensive regulatory system for imported pet food includes several key regulations:
- Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs' "Pet Feed Management Measures"
- Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs' "Pet Feed Labeling Regulations"
- Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs' "Pet Feed Hygiene Regulations"
- General Administration of Customs' "Supervision and Management Measures for the Inspection and Quarantine of Imported and Exported Feed and Feed Additives"
These regulations form an interconnected system covering all aspects from raw materials and production to labeling and sales.
2. Enterprise Qualifications: Who Can Import Pet Food?
China maintains strict requirements for both overseas manufacturers and domestic importers.
Overseas Manufacturers
- Must be registered with China Customs and listed in the "Registered Overseas Pet Food Production and Processing Enterprises Directory"
- Registration is valid for five years and requires renewal
- Currently includes manufacturers from over 20 countries/regions
Domestic Importers
- Business license must explicitly include "pet food" or "feed and feed additives"
- Must obtain import feed filing certificate
- Require import-export operation rights
- May need "Entry Animal and Plant Quarantine Permit" in certain cases
3. Product Requirements: What Pet Food Can Enter China?
Raw Material Sources
All ingredients must originate from approved countries/regions with traceable origins.
Ingredient Composition
Must comply with the "Feed Ingredient Directory" and "Feed Additive Variety Directory" issued by MARA.
Hygiene Standards
Must meet requirements in the "Pet Feed Hygiene Regulations."
Labeling Requirements
Labels must include in standardized Chinese:
- Product name
- Complete ingredient list
- Expiration date
- Manufacturer information
- Sample review testing number (if registered)
4. Customs Clearance Process: Step-by-Step Importation
- Compliance Verification: Confirm product and manufacturer eligibility
- Documentation: Obtain import filing and quarantine permits (except for canned pet food)
- Customs Declaration: Submit accurate documentation upon arrival
- Inspection: Undergo document verification, label checks, sensory examination, and lab testing
- Clearance: Receive "Inspection and Quarantine Certificate for Entry Goods" upon approval
5. Tariff Rates: Import Duties on Pet Food
Current tariff rates under the 2025 Tariff Adjustment Plan:
- Other plant products for animal feed: 5% MFN rate, 0% provisional rate
- Retail-packaged dog/cat food cans: 15% MFN rate, 10% provisional rate
- Other retail-packaged dog/cat food: 15% MFN rate, 10% provisional rate
- Other prepared animal feed: 6.5% MFN rate, 4% provisional rate
6. Key Considerations: Potential Pitfalls to Avoid
- Ensure products contain no prohibited ingredients
- For GMO ingredients, obtain "Agricultural GMO Biosafety Certificate"
- Use environmentally friendly packaging materials
- Maintain complete business records for at least two years
- Implement voluntary recalls for any safety issues and report to customs
China's comprehensive regulatory system for imported pet food continues to evolve alongside the growing pet economy. For industry professionals, strict compliance with regulations remains fundamental to successful import operations. For consumers, understanding these requirements helps in identifying authentic, compliant products that meet safety standards.