China Health Food Approval Tracker: 2026 SAMR Data

The China Imported Health Food Tracker consolidates monthly approvals, registrations, and notifications published by China's State Administration for Market Regulation (SAMR). Updated continuously throughout the year, this tool provides international manufacturers with a clear, real-time view of regulatory activity across key health food categories in China.

After a seven-year hiatus in imported health food registrations from 2017 to 2024, SAMR has resumed issuing 国食健字 J (“Guoshi Jianzi J”) registration certificates, signaling the reopening of the general trade registration pathway for imported health foods.

The tracker follows this renewed registration activity throughout 2026, helping companies identify emerging trends within their product category, monitor SAMR activity, and see where imported health food registrations are gaining momentum.

Explore the interactive charts below to track the latest activity. For an English-language copy of the underlying Excel data, contact Cisema today

2026 Activity by Registration Category

This consolidated view shows how regulatory activity is distributed across different health food categories, providing useful context for manufacturers evaluating the competitive and regulatory landscape for their products.

2026 Activity by Import Source

The distribution of imported health food registrations and notifications by source country or region provides an overview of international participation in China’s health food market and highlights the markets with the strongest representation.

The Reopened Registration Pathway: Opportunities & Execution

SAMR’s resumption of imported registrations marks a major shift. While the filing (notification) route remains an efficient option for standard nutrient supplements, obtaining a formal registration unlocks general trade sales in China—allowing brands to enter offline retail, pharmacies, and traditional e-commerce platforms with regulator-backed claims and long-term price stability.

However, approval is only the first step. Navigating SAMR’s rigorous dual-track system requires end-to-end technical and compliance management

Cisema supports international manufacturers throughout the China health food registration and market-entry process, helping companies navigate the regulatory requirements that apply to imported products.

This includes:

• Assessing the applicable regulatory pathway for the product
• Reviewing product formulations and supporting documentation
• Preparing and reviewing registration materials
• Supporting communication and submissions to the relevant Chinese authorities
• Coordinating testing and other regulatory requirements where applicable
• Supporting registration maintenance, renewals, and regulatory changes

To take the next step, explore Cisema’s China health food regulatory services or get in touch with a regulatory specialist today.

Further Information

• Explore Cisema’s China health food regulatory services

Glossary of Key Terms for China Health Foods and Supplements

This glossary summarizes essential terms used in the health food tracker to help manufacturers interpret NMPA data accurately.

Foods for Special Medical Purposes (FSMP)

Specialized formulas designed for individuals with specific medical conditions or special dietary needs, subject to separate SAMR registration requirements.

Health Food (HF)

Formulated products with specific health functions or dietary supplement roles regulated under China's Special Food framework. Requires either SAMR Registration or Filing before market access.国食健字 J (Guoshi Jianzi J)
The official registration permit number prefix assigned by SAMR specifically to approved imported health foods ("J" denoting imported products, vs. "G" for domestic).

Health Food Registration

The comprehensive approval process required for functional health foods or products containing ingredients outside China's pre-approved directory. Involves extensive technical review, functional testing, and safety evaluations, opening access to general trade sales.

Health Food Filing (Notification)

A streamlined administrative record-keeping process for standard nutrient supplements (e.g., vitamins and minerals) using pre-approved ingredients listed in China's Health Food Raw Materials Directory.

SAMR (State Administration for Market Regulation)

China’s national regulatory authority responsible for market supervision, food safety, and the approval of health foods and FSMPs.