Important Shipping Advisory: Two New Chemicals Added to China's Precursor Chemical Control List
Effective July 20, 2025
To Our Valued Clients and Partners,
This advisory serves to inform you of a critical regulatory update that will impact the international shipping process for certain chemicals from China.
Per Joint Announcement No. XX issued on May 12, 2025, by six Chinese authorities including the Ministry of Public Security and the General Administration of Customs, the following two chemicals have been added to China's controlled precursor chemical list:
- 4-Piperidone
- 1-Boc-4-piperidone
Effective Date: July 20, 2025
Implications for International Logistics & Key Action Items
Export Control & Licensing: Effective July 20, 2025, exporters must obtain the required "Export License for Dual-Use Items and Technologies" (for precursor chemicals) from the relevant Chinese authorities (typically local Public Security Bureaus) prior to any export shipment of these chemicals from China, whether via ocean freight or air freight. Customs clearance and release will be denied without a valid license.
Dual Compliance for Dangerous Goods: If the chemical also meets the classification criteria as Dangerous Goods/Hazardous Materials per the IMDG Code (sea) or IATA DGR (air), full compliance with all applicable dangerous goods regulations is additionally required. This includes proper classification, packaging, marking, labeling, and documentation (e.g., MSDS/SDS, DGD/Shipper's Declaration). This is a separate and mandatory requirement.
Supply Chain Planning Advice
- Verify Immediately: Confirm with your Chinese suppliers if your procured products, intermediates, or raw materials contain the listed substances.
- Build in Lead Time: Factor the administrative processing time for the Chinese precursor export license into your overall supply chain and shipping schedule to avoid delays.
- Ensure Documentation: Request that your supplier prepares all necessary compliance documents, including the Export License, GHS-compliant Safety Data Sheet (SDS), and packaging certifications meeting transport regulations.
- Our Support: As your freight forwarder, we can assist in verifying specific requirements and ensuring end-to-end logistics compliance. We strongly recommend engaging with us early for any potentially affected shipments to develop a compliant logistics plan.
This update is part of China's ongoing regulatory efforts to strengthen the control over chemicals that can be diverted for illicit use, aligning with international conventions. Understanding and adhering to these new requirements is essential for the smooth and lawful export of your goods from China.
We are monitoring regulatory developments and will provide updates as needed. Please contact your dedicated customer service representative with any questions.
Disclaimer: This advisory provides general information based on Joint Announcement of May 12, 2025. Always consult your freight forwarder and legal advisors for specific cargo requirements. Regulations are subject to change.