GACC Updates 2026 Sampling Inspection Scope for Non-Statutory Import & Export Products

On May 8, 2026, China's General Administration of Customs (GACC) issued Announcement No. 57 of 2026 (Announcement on the Inspection Sampling Program for Certain Import and Export Commodities Not Subject to Statutory Inspection in 2026), effective June 1, 2026.

The announcement replaces GACC Announcement No. 150 of 2025 and updates the list of import and export products that may be selected for customs sampling inspection. The revised program expands the scope for certain imported products while significantly narrowing coverage on the export side.

The program applies to products not subject to statutory inspection. Instead, customs may select shipments for sampling on a discretionary basis, and where selected, importers must provide supporting compliance documentation, including test reports and technical files, prior to release.

Imported Products: Key Changes to the 2026 Inspection Scope

The 2026 import sampling inspection program covers the following product categories:

• Infant and children's products (e.g., feeding bottles, pacifiers, toys, children's clothing, strollers, stationery, and child safety seats)
• Food contact products (new)
• Personal accessories*
• Adult footwear (new)
• Electronic products (consumer and commercial electronic devices)
• Low-voltage electrical products (e.g., switches, sockets, plugs, circuit breakers, and other electrical connection or protection devices rated below 1000V AC or 1500V DC)

Compared with the 2025 program, food contact products and adult footwear are notable additions. Several previously covered categories, including student stationery and household appliances, have been removed.

*Personal accessories is an approximate translation of日用饰品, which literally translates to"daily-use decorative items." The category generally includes fashion accessories and decorative personal items used in daily life.

Exported Products: Key Changes to the 2026 Inspection Scope

The export sampling inspection scope has been narrowed.

While the 2025 program covered a broader range of products, including children's toys, lighting products, low-voltage electrical products, and functional apparel, the 2026 program focuses only on:

• Infant and children's products
• Low-voltage electrical products

Preparing for China Customs Sampling Inspections in 2026

Companies with products covered by the revised scope should consider:

• Reviewing product classifications against the 2026 inspection scope rather than relying on previous years' coverage
• Identify shipments that could be affected if selected for sampling inspection and evaluate whether existing customs clearance timelines account for potential testing or documentation requests
• Review supplier qualification procedures, manufacturing controls, and product compliance documentation, particularly where testing and conformity evidence are generated outside China
• Verify that applicable test reports and technical files can be produced quickly in response to customs requests

Final Thoughts

For companies supplying products to China, the key consideration is whether products newly included in the 2026 program — particularly food contact products and adult footwear — are supported by documentation that can be provided promptly if a shipment is selected for sampling inspection.

For companies evaluating the impact of the updated requirements, Cisema supports manufacturers, exporters, importers, and brand owners with product scope assessments, compliance documentation reviews, and customs inspection preparedness.

To assess product coverage or strengthen inspection readiness under the 2026 program, contact Cisema today.

References

• General Administration of Customs Announcement No. 57 of 2026 (Announcement on Conducting Random Inspections and Inspections of Import and Export Commodities Other Than Statutory Inspections in 2026)‍
• Since June, the General Administration of Customs Has Conducted Spot Checks and Inspections on Certain Import and Export Goods