We reported the news that parts of the new tax policies for cross border eCommerce retail imports are most likely to be postponed for a year. On May 24th, it became official: Chinese Customs Department issued the latest document, which confirmed the news.

More exactly, customs clearance certificates for imported goods can be exempted until many 10th, 2017. The State Council of PRC has already approved this 1-year transition period policy.

Screenshots of new documents issued by Chinese Customs Department

Here are the details of the new document:

1. Bonded-zone model

In the 10 cross border eCommerce pilot cities (Shanghai, Chongqing, Hangzhou, Ningbo, Zhengzhou, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Tianjin, Fuzhou and Pingtan), “customs clearance certificate” would not be needed during the 1-year transition period.

The cross border eCommerce “Positive List” required special registration, special licenses or filings under PRC law for first-time imported cosmetics, baby formula, medical equipment and special food products (including healthcare food products). But, now during the 1-year transition period, registration mentioned above will not be needed.

2. Direct shipping model

The Positive List required special registration, special licenses or filings under PRC law for first-time imported cosmetics, baby formula, medical equipment and special food products (including healthcare food products). Same with bonded-zone model, during the 1-year transition period, those registrations will not be needed.

3. 1-year transition period

The 1-year transition period will end on May 11th, 2017 (including May 11th, 2017).

Cross border Cosmetics Retailer’s face right now?

Major takeaways?

– For bonded-zone model, no need for “customs clearance certificate” till May 11th, 2017.

– For first-time imported cosmetics, baby formula, medical equipment and special food products (including healthcare food products), no need for registration whether under bonded zone model or direct shipping model.

Cross border eCommerce retailers are back!

For further analysis, Click: Good News for China Cross Border eCommerce! Customs Clearance Certificate Delayed for 1 Year