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China's 2027 Export Quota Plan: Key Details for Foreign Founders

China's Ministry of Commerce has released the 2027 export quota totals and application procedures for certain goods. Foreign founders trading in these products need to understand the quota system to ensure compliance. Here's a practical overview.

China's 2027 Export Quota Plan: What Foreign Founders Need to Know

On October 29, 2026, China's Ministry of Commerce (MOFCOM) published Announcement No. 53 of 2026, setting out the total export quotas for 2027 and the 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, the Measures for the Administration of Export Commodity Quotas, and the Measures for the Bidding for Export Commodity Quotas. For foreign founders whose China-based companies export any of the listed products, understanding these rules is essential to avoid shipment delays and ensure compliance.

Which Products Are Subject to Export Quotas in 2027?

The announcement specifies the following 2027 export quota volumes for seven categories of goods:

• 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 trades in any of these goods, you will need to obtain a quota before you can export.

How Does the Quota Application Process Work?

Foreign-invested enterprises and other trading entities that export the above goods must apply to MOFCOM for a quota (either global or regional). Once the quota is granted, or if you are successful in a quota bidding process, you can apply for an export license. The export license is required for customs clearance.

The application window for 2027 quotas (excluding those allocated through bidding) runs from November 1, 2026, to November 15, 2026. Applicants must submit their materials to the provincial-level commerce department in the region where they are registered. That department will verify the materials and forward them to MOFCOM. MOFCOM will review the applications and allocate quotas to eligible applicants by December 15, 2026.

For licorice and licorice products, as well as rush and rush products, quotas are allocated through a bidding process. The specific conditions and procedures for bidding will be announced separately, so keep an eye on MOFCOM's updates if you deal in these products.

What About Phosphorus Ore and Silver?

The announcement also states that in 2027, China will continue to suspend the export quota management for phosphorus ore and silver. Instead, these goods will be subject to export license management. Eligible exporters can apply for an export license by presenting a valid export contract. For silver exported under processing trade, special provisions apply. As with quota goods, an export license is required for customs clearance.

Practical Steps for Foreign Founders

If your China-based company exports any of the quota-controlled goods, here are the key steps:

• Check if your product is listed: Review the seven categories above. If you are unsure, consult the full announcement (link provided below).
• Prepare your application early: The application window is only two weeks (Nov 1–15, 2026). Ensure you have all necessary documents ready.
• Submit to the right authority: Applications go to the provincial commerce department where your company is registered. They will forward it to MOFCOM.
• Wait for allocation: MOFCOM will allocate quotas by December 15, 2026. Plan your 2027 exports accordingly.
• Obtain export license: Once you have a quota, apply for an export license. This license is required for customs clearance.
• For bidding goods: If you export licorice or rush products, watch for separate bidding announcements.

Note that the term "provincial-level commerce departments" includes those of provinces, autonomous regions, municipalities directly under the Central Government, cities with independent planning status, and the Xinjiang Production and Construction Corps. Make sure you are dealing with the correct authority.

Why This Matters for Your China Business

Export quotas are a key part of China's trade management system. If your company exports any of the listed goods without a quota or license, your shipments may be delayed or refused customs clearance. Even if you are not directly involved in exporting these goods, if you are a foreign founder setting up a trading company in China, it's wise to understand which products are subject to quotas and licenses. This knowledge can help you choose your business scope and avoid compliance issues.

ChinaMNC regularly monitors MOFCOM announcements to help foreign founders stay informed. For the official announcement, you can refer to the MOFCOM website.

Call to Action: If you need assistance with company registration, export licensing, or understanding China's trade regulations, contact ChinaMNC on WhatsApp or WeChat at +86 153 1898 8535. Our team can guide you through the process and help you operate your business smoothly in China.

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