Despite a slowdown in 2024, where China’s meat imports fell by 11.2% in volume and 16.9% in value compared to 2023, the country remains a crucial market for European meat exporters. By May 2025, sixteen EU countries successfully established export protocols, leading to the approval of 514 EU establishments for export to China — 64% of which specialise in pork production.
However, with China’s pork imports projected to decline over the next decade, SMEs are encouraged to diversify their offerings. There is growing demand for imported beef, with forecasts from the 2024–2033 China Agricultural Outlook Report suggesting beef imports will rise from 2.79 million tons in 2024 to over 3.12 million tons by 2033. Poultry imports are expected to see a slight decrease, underlining the need for SMEs to align their products with evolving consumer preferences.
What’s Inside the New Guidelines?
Our guidelines start with an overview of China’s meat market, outlining key trends in consumption and imports. This section also covers the essential laws, regulations, and standards that govern meat imports, as well as specific protocols agreed between China and EU Member States. Insights into EU meat export registrations and practical guidance on company registration with GACC’s CIFER system are also provided.
In the Import Procedures section, SMEs will find clear information on requirements for both Chinese meat importers and foreign exporters. This part helps SMEs understand what is expected on both sides of the trade process. The Packaging and Labelling Standards chapter explains how to meet China’s strict requirements for meat product packaging, ensuring compliance with local food safety rules and consumer expectations.
The guidelines also highlight common challenges, such as frequent reasons for import rejections and practical advice for navigating China’s complex regulatory environment. Finally, we have included some recommendations for EU SMEs section with tips on strengthening food safety systems and getting ready for the Chinese market. Additional resources are provided to support businesses further.
Navigating China’s Meat Import Regulations
China’s food safety and import regulations have tightened significantly in recent years. Since January 2022, Decree 248 and Decree 249 have introduced stricter requirements for high-risk products like meat. These decrees cover company registration, labelling, food safety standards, and traceability obligations. The General Administration of Customs of China (GACC) is expected to amend Decree 248 soon, underscoring the importance for SMEs to stay updated.
Given China’s dynamic regulatory environment, European SMEs must stay informed of regulatory updates, including any forthcoming changes to Decree 248. By leveraging these new guidelines, SMEs can better position themselves to access the Chinese market and contribute to Europe’s growing meat export footprint.
