Information Center

How to Export Feed Additives to China: 

A Guide to GACC and MARA Registration

China offers significant opportunities for overseas feed additive manufacturers. However, exporting feed additives to China requires compliance with specific regulations governing product eligibility, manufacturing facilities and product registration.

Understanding these requirements before entering the market can help manufacturers avoid unnecessary delays and prepare an effective export strategy.

1.Understand GACC and MARA Registration

Two key regulatory authorities to consider are GACC and MARA.

GACC (General Administration of Customs of China)

GACC registration concerns overseas manufacturing facilities. Depending on the product category and applicable import requirements, foreign manufacturers may need to complete facility registration before exporting their products to China.

MARA (Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs of China)

MARA oversees the registration of imported feed and feed additives that fall within the scope of China’s imported feed registration requirements. Products subject to these requirements must obtain a MARA Registration Certificate before being legally imported and sold in China.

In simple terms, GACC focuses on the manufacturing facility, while MARA registration focuses on the product.

Having GACC registration does not automatically mean that all products manufactured at the facility are approved for import into China.

2. Check Product Eligibility Before Applying

Before starting the registration process, manufacturers should confirm whether their products are eligible for the Chinese market.

The assessment typically covers:

* Product classification: Whether the product is classified as a feed additive, feed ingredient or another category.

* Ingredient compliance: Whether the ingredients are permitted for the intended use under Chinese regulations.

* Manufacturing country: Whether the country and facility meet the applicable import requirements.

* Registration requirements: Whether GACC registration, MARA registration or other approvals are required.

Products containing ingredients that are not approved for the intended use in China may face additional regulatory challenges. A preliminary assessment can help identify potential issues before an application begins.

3. Prepare the Required Documents

The exact documentation requirements depend on the product category and registration route. Common documents may include:

* Product composition and ingredient specifications

* Manufacturing process description

* Product quality standards and testing methods

* Product specifications and relevant test reports

* Evidence of approval or legal sale in the country of origin

* Product labels and usage instructions

* Safety and stability information, where required

* Manufacturer information and relevant authorization documents

Product samples may also be required for official testing or re-testing.

All documents should be accurate and consistent. Differences between the formulation, technical specifications, labels and test reports may result in requests for clarification or supplementary materials.

Some documents may also need translation, notarization or authentication, depending on the applicable procedure.

4. Complete GACC Facility Registration

Where GACC registration is required, the overseas manufacturing facility must follow the applicable registration procedure.

The general process may include:

1. Collecting facility and company information.

2. Preparing the required application documents.

3. Submitting the application through the appropriate channel.

4. Coordinating with the competent authority, where required.

5. Following up on the application until the registration status is confirmed.

The specific procedure varies by product category and country of origin. Some categories require recommendation by the competent authority in the exporting country, while others may follow different application arrangements.

Manufacturers should confirm the applicable route before preparing their applications.

5. Apply for the MARA Registration Certificate

For products subject to imported feed registration, obtaining a MARA Registration Certificate is a key step before entering the Chinese market.

The process generally involves:

1. Technical document preparation: Compiling product formulation, manufacturing information, quality standards and supporting documents.

2. Application submission: Submitting the required materials through the applicable registration procedure.

3. Regulatory review: Addressing questions or providing supplementary information if requested.

4. Sample testing: Arranging the required product sample testing or re-testing procedures.

5. Registration decision: Following up until the application outcome is confirmed and the certificate is issued, if approved.

The timeline varies according to the product, document completeness, testing requirements and regulatory review. Some applications may take several months, while products requiring additional assessments may take longer.

The timeline varies according to the product, document completeness, testing requirements and regulatory review. Some applications may take several months, while products requiring additional assessments may take longer.

6. Frequently Asked Questions

Does a factory with GACC registration need MARA registration as well?

Possibly. GACC and MARA serve different regulatory purposes. If the product falls within the scope of imported feed registration, the required MARA registration must also be completed.

Do all feed additives require a MARA Registration Certificate?

Not necessarily. Requirements depend on the product classification, ingredients and applicable regulations. Manufacturers should confirm the regulatory status of each product before applying.

Can multiple products be registered together?

This depends on their formulations and the applicable registration rules. Products with different compositions may require separate applications or certificates.

What if our formulation is confidential?

Technical composition information may be required for regulatory review. Manufacturers can discuss confidentiality arrangements, such as a non-disclosure agreement (NDA), before sharing sensitive information with their service provider.

Can we start if we do not yet have a Chinese importer?

You can begin by assessing product eligibility and the registration requirements. However, the applicable application procedure and any additional requirements should be confirmed for your specific product and circumstances.