China: Trade Alert - Meat and Poultry Product Expiration and Shelf-Life Requirements

On March 31, 2025, China’s International Trade Single Window published a notification that included an update stating that imported meat and poultry products would require a “Product Expiration Date” as a data field for customs import declarations. Industry sources have shared with FAS China that this import clearance requirement could be enforced effective April 7, 2025, for meat and poultry products. USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) does not have regulations that require such dates as the matter relates to product quality and not food safety. U.S. exporters should consider providing the requested information and documentation to their importers who can directly or through their brokers enter the required information when presenting documents and materials for customs clearance in China.