China Customs Inspections - Additional Info
Last week it was reported that China was significantly increasing the frequency of inspections on exports.
Further information this week has indicated that the increased scrutiny by China Customs has been the result of rising smuggling and misreporting of exports. Goods that have cleared warehouse-level Customs are on occasion being reviewed further by China Customs General Administration.
Export controlled items; rare-earth elements, base metals, magnets, and those items already advised under HS codes 84, 85 & 90 are currently the primary focus.
Two review scenarios that are currently in operation are:
- Local Customs Review - Third party material test reports and statements are reviewed. Decisions are taking 3+ working days.
- China Customs General Administration Review - More complex scrutiny of paperwork and goods. Decisions are taking 2-3 weeks with possible delays.
Examples of flagged items - aluminium tables, clay-coated ceramics, metal hinges.
Chinese shippers are asked to provide full details upfront to avoid delays or inability to proceed.
Please ensure these potential delays are factored into your freight timelines to ensure lead times are accurate.