How to Check if Your Product is Subject to China’s Export Controls

As global trade becomes more complex, exporters must be increasingly aware of export control regulations. Shipping restricted goods without the proper licenses can lead to severe penalties, shipment delays, or customs seizures.

If you’re exporting from China, especially in sensitive industries like rare earths, chemicals, or advanced technologies, it’s essential to verify whether your product is subject to export controls. Fortunately, China’s Ministry of Commerce (MOFCOM) provides an efficient way to check.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the process.

Step 1: Visit the Official MOFCOM Website

Start by visiting the Ministry of Commerce of the People’s Republic of China (MOFCOM).
At the top right of the homepage, you’ll find a search bar.

Simply enter “出口管制” (export control) or the specific product name you want to check, then click Search.

Step 2: Filter the Results by Policy Announcements

On the results page, select the “Policy Disclosure” (政策公开) tab.
This will automatically refine your search to show official policy documents and government announcements.

Scroll through the list to find any notices related to your product. Pay special attention to recent announcements that may introduce new export restrictions.

For example:

• In 2025, China announced new export control measures on medium and heavy rare earth elements.
• The same year, restrictions were added for certain products containing tungsten, tellurium, bismuth, molybdenum, and indium.

Older export control announcements are also available for reference.

Step 3: Search by Keywords for Specific Needs

The MOFCOM site has a powerful search function. You can try various keywords based on your concern.

For example:

• To check if a product requires an export license in 2025, simply search for “许可证” (license).
• For more precise results, use the Advanced Search function to filter by keywords, publication date, document type, or the number of displayed results.

This will help you quickly locate the most relevant policies.

Why This Matters

Failing to comply with China’s export control laws can result in:

• Customs clearance failure
• Fines and penalties
• Business disruptions
• Damage to international partnerships

Understanding the export status of your products is no longer optional—it’s a critical part of international trade strategy.

Final Tip

If you’re uncertain about interpreting Chinese government notices or whether your product falls within a restricted category, it’s highly recommended to:

• Consult with professional export agents or logistics providers familiar with China’s trade policies
• Contact local commerce authorities or export licensing offices for clarification

Being proactive will save you significant time, cost, and potential legal risk.