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China Releases 2027 Export Quota Volumes and Application Rules for Restricted Goods

China's MOFCOM announces 2027 export quotas for certain agricultural and resource products, with application window from November 1 to 15, 2026. Foreign founders trading these goods must understand quota and licensing requirements.

Foreign founders involved in trading restricted goods should note China's 2027 export quota volumes and application procedures, published by the Ministry of Commerce (MOFCOM) in Announcement No. 53 of 2026. The announcement sets quotas for seven categories of goods and outlines how businesses can apply. This matters for your China company if you export these products: you'll need to secure a quota and an export license before customs clearance. Below we break down the key points and what they mean for your operations.

Which Goods Are Subject to 2027 Export Quotas?

The following goods have export quotas for 2027, with volumes specified in the announcement:

• Licorice and licorice products: 5.2 million kilograms
• Artificially cultivated ephedra for medicinal use: 1.0804 million kilograms
• Live pigs (for Hong Kong and Macao): 1.6054 million heads
• Live cattle (for Hong Kong and Macao): 22,000 heads
• Live chickens (for Hong Kong): 3 million birds
• Sawn timber: 150,000 cubic meters
• Rush and rush products: 14 million kilograms

If your China-based company exports any of these products, you must obtain a quota before proceeding. The quotas are split between global and regional allocations, and you'll need to specify which type you're applying for.

How to Apply for an Export Quota

The application process involves several steps and strict deadlines. Here's what you need to know:

Application Window

For quotas allocated by non-bidding methods, the application period runs from November 1 to November 15, 2026. Late submissions will not be accepted, so mark your calendar.

Where to Submit

Submit your application materials to the provincial-level commerce department where your company is located. This includes departments in provinces, autonomous regions, municipalities directly under the Central Government, cities with separate planning status, and the Xinjiang Production and Construction Corps. The provincial department will verify your materials and forward them to MOFCOM.

What Happens Next

MOFCOM will review all applications and allocate quotas to eligible applicants by December 15, 2026. Once you receive a quota, you can apply for an export license.

Quota Allocation via Bidding

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. If you plan to export these goods, keep an eye out for that announcement and prepare to participate in the bidding.

Export Licensing Requirements

After securing a quota (or winning a bid), you must obtain an export license from MOFCOM. The license is issued based on your quota certificate or bid-winning certificate. You'll then present the export license to customs to clear your goods. This two-step process—quota first, license second—is mandatory for all listed goods.

Special Rules for Phosphate Rock and Silver

For 2027, China continues to suspend quota management for phosphate rock and silver. Instead, these goods are subject to export licensing only. If your company meets the conditions, you can apply for an export license by presenting a valid export contract. For silver exported under processing trade, additional rules apply. Once you have the license, customs clearance proceeds as usual. This means you don't need a quota for these two goods, but you still need a license.

What This Means for Your China Company

If you're setting up or running a company in China that exports any of the restricted goods, you must plan ahead. Ensure your business license covers the relevant activities, and that you have the necessary qualifications. The application window is short, so prepare your documents in advance. Work closely with your local provincial commerce department to avoid delays. Failure to secure a quota or license can halt your exports, so compliance is critical.

For foreign founders, understanding these regulations is part of maintaining a compliant China entity. If you're new to exporting from China, consider consulting with local authorities or professional advisors to navigate the process.

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

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