Imagine walking through a farmers' market where every head of cabbage, every apple comes with its own digital identification card, detailing its origin and quality status. This isn't science fiction—it's about to become reality. Starting February 1, 2026, China will implement a comprehensive Agricultural Product Quality Safety Commitment Certificate System , equipping all commercially sold vegetables, fruits, livestock, poultry, and aquatic products with these special "ID cards."
Producer-Issued Quality Guarantees
The new certificates will be issued directly by producers or purchasing entities, serving as their binding commitment to product quality and safety. These documents certify that the agricultural products meet national food safety standards, giving consumers confidence in their purchases.
Agricultural enterprises and farming cooperatives will be required to issue certificates for every product batch and maintain related records for at least six months to ensure traceability. While small-scale farmers won't face mandatory requirements, the system encourages their participation to enhance market competitiveness.
Strict Purchasing Controls
The system places significant responsibility on purchasing agents, who must verify and collect certificates before acquiring any agricultural products. Purchasing entities are prohibited from buying products without proper certification and must retain collected certificates for at least six months to facilitate quality tracing when needed.
This measure aims to strengthen quality awareness throughout the production chain, ensuring food safety at its source and delivering what officials describe as "security on the tip of the tongue" for consumers nationwide.