Until the end of 2018, ATA carnets were only accepted in China for trade fairs and exhibitions. The Chinese government have now announced they will accept all categories, to include commercial samples and professional equipment.
Changes are being formally ratified by the ICC and represent a boost for those wishing to export into a growing economy. Improved trade facilities with a nation of 1.4 billion people is good news.
Wider ATA carnet support will also aid film, or TV producers and any business wishing to demonstrate their products, or equipment.
Carnet Use In China
Procedure is well understood at major ports and airports. A number of provincial centres for carnet acceptance are also being opened, a sign of China’s wish to increase carnet use.
At present, validity is restricted to 6 months, although an extension is normally possible. An application needs to be made before expiry, working with your ATA carnet supplier on this makes sense.
Where you are taking carnet items as hand luggage, customs clearance is rarely an issue, although you then need to visit the nearest China Chamber of International Commerce (CCOIC) office within three working days.
For shipped goods on a carnet, electronic data registration is normally required. As with meeting other regulations, your freight forwarder should assist.
Support From Dynamic
Through our own management and our specialist ATA carnet company, we can provide all the assistance you require. When travelling to China, using professional support is a useful idea.
China are making an effort to build trade and welcome business visitors. They are still a country where being administratively correct helps.
Lists of goods on carnets needs to be clear and accurate, along with labelling of items. Regulatory procedures for categories of goods needing extra clearance should be followed.
Don’t let that put you off, simply a case of being systematic, to visit an incredibly diverse country full of opportunity.
