The General Administration of Customs of the People’s Republic of China has announced new phytosanitary requirements for the importation of Ceylon cinnamon from Sri Lanka. This development marks a significant step towards enhancing trade relations between the two nations and expanding the market for Sri Lankan Ceylon cinnamon in China.

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Key Details:

• Regulatory Framework: Announcement No. 145 of 2023 establishes strict guidelines under China’s “Biosafety Law,” “Entry and Exit Animal and Plant Quarantine Law,” and “Food Safety Law.” These regulations are designed to ensure the quality and safety of imported Ceylon cinnamon.
• Product Definition: Ceylon cinnamon, derived from Cinnamomum verum grown in Sri Lanka and processed through drying after harvesting, is eligible for export under these new guidelines.
• Enterprise Registration: Sri Lankan cinnamon producers must register their planting bases and processing facilities with China’s General Administration of Customs. This registration ensures compliance with Chinese standards and enables traceability of exported goods.

Phytosanitary Requirements:

• Planting Base Management: Sri Lanka is required to establish a robust traceability system for Ceylon cinnamon planting bases, implementing Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) to ensure safe and sustainable farming practices. This includes maintaining hygienic conditions, monitoring pests, and documenting pest control measures.
• Processing and Packaging Standards: Exported cinnamon must undergo processing and packaging in facilities approved by Sri Lanka’s authorities, adhering to Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP). This ensures cleanliness, hygiene, and the prevention of contamination throughout the processing chain. Packaging materials must comply with Chinese regulations and include detailed labeling.

Import Procedures:

• Pre-Export Inspection: Initial exports will undergo rigorous pre-departure inspection and quarantine, with a sampling ratio of 2%. Successful compliance over two years may reduce this to 1%.
• Entry Inspection: Upon arrival in China, imported Ceylon cinnamon will undergo verification of phytosanitary certificates and cargo inspection to ensure compliance with all regulations. Non-compliant shipments will be subject to return or destruction.

The implementation of Announcement No. 145 signals a new era of opportunity for Sri Lankan Ceylon cinnamon exporters, opening access to the lucrative Chinese market under stringent quality and safety standards. This initiative not only strengthens bilateral trade ties but also reinforces Sri Lanka’s commitment to sustainable agriculture and international food safety standards. With adherence to GAP for farming and GMP for processing, Sri Lanka ensures that its Ceylon cinnamon meets the highest standards demanded by the Chinese market, fostering trust and reliability in international trade relationships.

Download China Cinnamon Protocol 

you can access the registration form here.