On April 1, 2020, China announced it would restrict Chinese exports of medical supplies to only allow those entities that are licensed to sell medical supplies to export. The South China Morning Post states, “China’s new restrictions on the export of coronavirus-related medical supplies deal is not only a blow to domestic producers but could leave countries still battling Covid-19 with a massive shortfall of essential items.” The products include test kits, surgical masks, protective equipment, ventilators, and infrared thermometers. “Companies have described the ruling as unreasonable and appealed for it to be lifted so they can ship their goods – many of which are now stockpiled in factories and at ports – to the places where they are most needed. Meanwhile, foreign buyers are racing to source sufficient stocks from legitimate Chinese suppliers.”

China export masks

The rule came after Spain allegedly refused a shipment of COVID-19 rapid test kids because they deemed them poor quality. According to Sandler, Travis and Rosenberg, “Exports of the products require certification from authorized testing laboratories, copies of the manufacturer’s business license, and the manufacturer’s certificate from China’s National Medical Products Administration. Previously exporters of such goods were only required to work with the foreign importer to make sure the product was compliant with the relevant requirements of the importing country, and there was no special requirement for export certification.”

According to Sandler, Travis and Rosenberg, effective April 26, 2020, “all exports of non-medical face masks must meet the qualification standards of either China or the importing nation. When declaring such an export, the manufacturer must submit an electronic or written announcement, jointly signed by the exporter and the foreign importer, attesting that the product meets this requirement. In addition, the foreign importer must attest that they accept the qualification standard and are aware that the face masks should not be used for medical use.”

According to the same article, the following products are included in this mandate:

  • COVID-19 test kits
  • ventilators
  • medical protective clothing
  • medical protective masks
  • medical surgical masks
  • one-time use medical masks
  • infrared thermometers

Looking to Import Medical Items?

If you would like more information or need some guidance, our team of Licensed U.S. Customs brokers and Global Trade Experts are happy to help. Please email consulting@scarbrough-intl.com. Our consultations are free.

About Scarbrough

Scarbrough Global of Companies, headquartered in Kansas City with local presence in every major port in the world, is a complete international and domestic supply chain service provider, offering U.S., Mexican, and Canadian Customs brokerage, Import & Export Transportation Solutions, Domestic brokerage and asset-based trucking, Warehouse fulfillment and distribution services, Trade Compliance Consulting, Large Equipment and Project Cargo moves, as well as Parcel Audit Savings.  Scarbrough is widely known for its trade experts, training, personalized customer service, customized solutions, and data analytics tools.  Since 1984, Scarbrough has continued to satisfy its clients by following its motto on a daily basis: “It is our job to make your job easier.”  Moreover, our team of experts is available at your disposal.  We offer free consultations on any topic from supply chain optimization and duty savings opportunities to the basics, helping to guide new importers and exporters as they jump into the world of global trade.  Contact us now.