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

China's Ministry of Commerce has published the 2027 export quota totals and application procedures for certain goods. Foreign founders operating in China should understand which products are affected, how quotas are allocated, and key deadlines.

China Releases 2027 Export Quota Totals for Selected Goods

On October 25, 2026, China's Ministry of Commerce (MOFCOM) issued Announcement No. 53 of 2026, setting out the 2027 export quota totals and related management measures for certain goods. 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 whose China-based companies trade in these goods, understanding the quota system is essential for compliance and planning.

Which Goods Are Subject to Export Quotas in 2027?

The announcement specifies 2027 export quota totals for the following products:

• Licorice and licorice products: 5.2 million kilograms
• Artificially cultivated ephedra for pharmaceutical use: 1.0804 million kilograms
• Live pigs (for Hong Kong and Macau): 1.6054 million heads
• Live cattle (for Hong Kong and Macau): 22,000 heads
• 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 from China. If your company deals in any of these goods, you will need to obtain a quota before exporting.

How Does the Quota Application Process Work?

Foreign trade operators exporting the goods listed above must apply to MOFCOM for a quota (global or regional). Once the quota is granted, or upon winning a quota tender, the operator can apply for an export license from the relevant authorities. The export license is required for customs clearance and export declaration.

The application process involves several steps:

• Application period: For quotas not allocated by tender, applications are accepted from November 1, 2026, to November 15, 2026.
• Submission: Applicants must submit their materials to the provincial-level commerce department where they are located. The provincial department will verify the materials and forward them to MOFCOM.
• Review and allocation: MOFCOM will review the applications and allocate quotas to qualified 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 tender process. The specific conditions and procedures for the tender will be announced separately.

What About Phosphorus Ore and Silver?

In 2027, China will continue to suspend export quota management for phosphorus ore and silver. Instead, these goods will be subject to export license management. Qualified exporters of phosphorus ore or silver can apply for an export license by presenting a valid export contract. For silver exported under processing trade, the relevant regulations apply. The export license is then used for customs clearance.

This means that while quotas are not required for these two goods, an export license is still mandatory. Foreign founders involved in trading these commodities should ensure they obtain the necessary license before shipping.

Key Definitions and Practical Implications

The announcement clarifies that "provincial-level commerce departments" refer to the commerce authorities of provinces, autonomous regions, municipalities directly under the Central Government, cities with independent planning status, and the Xinjiang Production and Construction Corps.

For foreign founders operating a company in China, these rules affect export planning. If your business exports any of the quota-controlled goods, you must apply for a quota within the specified window and obtain an export license. Missing the deadline could delay or prevent exports. For phosphorus ore and silver, while quotas are suspended, the export license requirement remains.

It is advisable to work closely with your local provincial commerce department to ensure your application materials are complete and submitted on time. Also, keep an eye out for the separate announcement on the tender process for licorice and rush products.

How ChinaMNC Can Help

Navigating China's export quota and licensing system can be complex, especially for foreign founders. ChinaMNC provides practical assistance with company registration and ongoing operations in China. If you need help understanding how these regulations apply to your business, or if you require support with applications and compliance, our team can guide you through the process.

For assistance, contact ChinaMNC on WhatsApp or WeChat at +86 153 1898 8535. We can help you register and operate your company in China efficiently.

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