Customs guide enhances China-CEEC Expo efficiency

To streamline the import process for exhibitors, Ningbo Customs has introduced a clearance guide ahead of the 4th China-CEEC Expo and International Consumer Goods Fair, scheduled to take place in Ningbo, Zhejiang, from May 22 to 25.

One of the key recommendations is the use of the ATA Carnet, an international customs document that simplifies temporary imports. Exhibitors using this system will benefit from an entry-exit period aligned with the carnet's validity, typically up to one year. This extended timeframe allows businesses greater flexibility in managing their exhibition items, whether by seeking local partners or being shown at other trade fairs in China.

To enhance efficiency further, a temporary inspection area will be established within the venue. Exhibitors requiring on-site customs inspection due to specific circumstances can apply for direct clearance at the fairgrounds, streamlining the process for items unsuitable for port-side examination.

Regulatory adjustments also contribute to a more seamless import experience. A key policy update from China's General Administration of Customs last November removed quarantine approvals for certain imported food products, including cured meats, casings, dairy, seafood, and bird's nest. As a result, CEEC products such as dairy goods and preserved meats will undergo a significantly faster clearance process, potentially reducing overall processing time by over 30 percent.

Additionally, e-commerce will play a vital role in connecting CEEC products with Chinese consumers. Exhibition items listed in the e-commerce retail import catalog can enter bonded zones after the expo, enabling eligible products to be sold through online platforms under a bonded retail model. This means that even visitors online can purchase popular CEEC items like Polish milk and Czech beer, ensuring that the exhibition's impact reaches its potential.