China Customs Declaration

When traveling to and from China, it’s crucial to understand the customs declaration process to ensure compliance with the country’s regulations. Here’s a detailed guide on the China Customs Declaration for travelers:

Customs Declaration for Entry into China

Required to Declare

Travelers must declare the following items:

  1. Currency and Monetary Instruments:
    • More than RMB 20,000 or equivalent in foreign currencies (USD 5,000).
  2. Valuables:
    • Gold, silver, and other precious metals and stones.
  3. Cultural Relics:
    • Antiques, artworks, and cultural relics.
  4. Alcohol and Tobacco:
    • More than 1.5 liters of alcohol (with alcohol content over 12%) and more than 400 cigarettes, 100 cigars, or 500 grams of tobacco.
  5. Medicines:
    • Prescription drugs and traditional Chinese medicines (for personal use in reasonable quantities).
  6. Electronic Equipment:
    • Items that may require permits, like high-tech equipment.
  7. Animals, Plants, and Products:
    • Items subject to quarantine or requiring special permits.
  8. Professional Equipment:
    • Equipment and tools for professional use.

Not Required to Declare

Travelers do not need to declare:

  1. Personal Items:
    • Clothing, toiletries, and other personal effects for personal use within reasonable quantities.
  2. Small Quantities of Food:
    • Personal consumption amounts of food items not subject to quarantine.

Customs Declaration for Exit from China

Required to Declare

Travelers must declare the following items:

  1. Currency and Monetary Instruments:
    • More than RMB 20,000 or equivalent in foreign currencies (USD 5,000).
  2. Cultural Relics:
    • Antiques, artworks, and cultural relics.
  3. Endangered Species:
    • Animals, plants, and products made from endangered species.
  4. Professional Equipment:
    • Equipment and tools for professional use.
  5. Electronic Equipment:
    • High-tech equipment that may require permits.

General Declaration Process

  1. Customs Declaration Form:
    • Complete the China Customs Declaration Form if you have items to declare. This form is usually available at the customs area of the airport or port.
  2. Channels:
    • Red Channel: Use this channel if you have items to declare.
    • Green Channel: Use this channel if you have nothing to declare.
  3. Inspection:
    • Present the declaration form and items to customs officers for inspection.
    • Be prepared to provide documentation, such as receipts, prescriptions, and permits.

Special Tips

  1. Prepare Documentation:
    • Have all necessary documents ready, such as receipts for valuables, prescriptions for medicines, and permits for cultural relics or professional equipment.
  2. Be Honest:
    • Declare all items truthfully to avoid penalties or confiscation.
  3. Know the Limits:
    • Familiarize yourself with the limits on currency, tobacco, alcohol, and other items.
  4. Check Latest Regulations:
    • Regulations can change, so check the latest information before your trip.

Useful Contacts and Resources

By understanding and following these guidelines, travelers can ensure a smooth customs experience when entering or exiting China.