The Ministry of Commerce (MOFCOM) and the General Administration of Customs (GAC) of the People’s Republic of China jointly issued Announcement No. 79 of 2025, announcing the decision to implement export license management for certain steel products. The new regulation is set to take effect on [Effective Date, e.g., January 1, 2026].
The announcement specifies that enterprises exporting the designated steel products must now obtain an export license prior to customs declaration. The relevant product categories and specific requirements for the license application process will be detailed in a separate catalog and guidelines to be released by MOFCOM.
This policy adjustment aims to further optimize the export management system for steel products, safeguard the healthy development of the industry, and better align with international trade practices. The implementation of export license management will enhance the traceability and regulation of these exports, contributing to the stable and orderly operation of the market.
MOFCOM and GAC stated that the move is part of routine trade policy optimization, designed to ensure compliance with China’s international obligations while promoting the high-quality development of the domestic steel sector. Relevant government departments will provide necessary guidance and services to facilitate a smooth transition for affected enterprises.
Exporters are advised to closely monitor the official websites of MOFCOM and GAC for the forthcoming detailed catalog, application procedures, and implementation guidelines to ensure timely compliance with the new requirements.
About the Ministry of Commerce (MOFCOM):
The Ministry of Commerce of the People’s Republic of China is responsible for formulating and implementing China’s domestic trade, foreign trade, international economic cooperation, and trade investment policies.
About the General Administration of Customs (GAC):
The General Administration of Customs of the People’s Republic of China is the national agency overseeing customs supervision, tariffs collection, smuggling suppression, and import/export statistics.