CHINA PRECURSOR CHEMICAL EXPORT LICENSING UPDATE
China has added two chemicals to export licensing controls applying to shipments from China to the United States, Mexico and Canada. The measure was announced on September 22, 2026 and applies from the date of announcement.
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The Regulatory Change
The Ministry of Commerce of China, together with the Ministry of Public Security, the Ministry of Emergency Management, the General Administration of Customs and the National Medical Products Administration, issued Announcement No. 40 of 2026. The announcement adds two entries to Part I of Attachment 1 to the catalogue governing precursor chemical exports to specified countries and regions.
For China-based exporters, the licensing requirement applies when a chemical listed in Part I is exported to the United States, Mexico or Canada. The obligation is to apply for the required license under the applicable interim measures. This is a licensing control rather than an outright export ban.
The Two Added Chemicals
The English names render the Chinese catalogue entries for reader convenience. The official catalogue determines scope by product name, while Customs commodity codes are provided for declaration reference only.
| Added chemical | Customs commodity code |
|---|---|
| Methyl 1-phenethyl-4-oxo-3-piperidinecarboxylate | 2933399075 |
| Ethyl 1-phenethyl-4-oxo-3-piperidinecarboxylate | 2933399075 |
Export Destinations and Licensing Requirement
| Export destination | Catalogue scope | Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| United States, Mexico and Canada | Part I of Attachment 1 | Apply for a license |
| Myanmar, Laos and Afghanistan | Part II of Attachment 1 | Apply for a license |
| Other countries and regions | The relevant catalogue entries | No license required under these interim measures |
Actions for China-Based Exporters and Overseas Buyers
Screen product names and salts. Part I now contains 18 controlled entries, including the two new entries. Salts of the listed entries are also within the control scope.
Review planned shipments. China-based exporters should identify whether current or planned exports to the United States, Mexico or Canada fall within the updated Part I scope.
Plan the licensing step before shipment. Where a shipment falls within scope, confirm the applicable licensing route and allow time for the relevant application before customs clearance arrangements are finalised.
Confirm supply continuity. Overseas buyers and distributors should ask their China-based supplier whether the product is within the updated catalogue and whether licensing could affect delivery timing or contractual commitments.
Understanding the Part I Scope
The 18 controlled entries should not be read as a simple list of 18 individual substances. The official catalogue includes entries that cover specified derivative categories, and it extends control to the salts of all listed entries. Businesses should therefore assess the official product name and the applicable scope rather than relying on a Customs commodity code alone.
The complete and current catalogue is available through the official MOFCOM announcement and its Attachment 1.
How REACH24H Can Help
REACH24H supports businesses with China precursor chemical licensing requirements, including applications for Dual-use Items Import/Export Licenses. Learn more about China Precursor Chemical Licenses.
Need Help Confirming Export Licensing Scope?
REACH24H can help businesses assess China precursor chemical export licensing requirements and prepare for the relevant application process.
