How to Update Product Information in GACC Registration – 2026 Guide

Many exporters face a common problem after getting GACC registration: their product information changes, but they are not sure how to update it in the system. This can create serious issues. If the product details in the GACC record do not match the actual shipment, Chinese customs may stop the goods at the port. The good news is that updating product information is possible if you follow the correct process. In this guide, we will explain in simple language how businesses can update product information in GACC registration in 2026 and avoid export delays or rejection.

Understanding GACC Registration

General Administration of Customs of China (GACC) is the authority that manages customs regulations for goods entering China. In recent years, China has strengthened its import rules for food products to ensure safety and traceability.

Because of this, overseas manufacturers who want to export food to China must register their facilities with GACC. This registration confirms that the manufacturing company follows the required safety standards and that Chinese authorities have the company’s product details in their system.

During registration, companies provide information such as:

● Company name and address

● Production facility details

● Type of food products manufactured

● Processing or manufacturing methods

● Contact details of responsible persons

Once approved, the company receives a GACC registration number, which must appear on product packaging when exporting to China.

But business operations change over time. Companies introduce new products, update product specifications, or correct earlier information. In such cases, the product details must also be updated in the GACC registration system.

Why Updating Product Information Is Important

Many exporters underestimate the importance of keeping their GACC information updated. However, the details stored in the system are directly linked to customs verification.

When a shipment reaches China, customs authorities often check whether the product information in the shipment documents matches the information recorded in the GACC system.

If the information does not match, the shipment may face problems.

Some possible consequences include:

➤ Delay in customs clearance

➤ Additional inspection at the port

➤ Temporary holding of goods

➤ Rejection of shipment

➤ Loss of business reputation with buyers

For exporters, even a small mistake in product information can create unnecessary trouble. Updating the registration when changes happen helps avoid these risks.

Situations When Product Information Should Be Updated

Product information should be updated whenever there is a change that affects the product details recorded during the original registration.

Here are some common situations where updates are required.

➜ Adding a New Product

Many companies expand their product line after getting GACC registration. If the new product belongs to a category that was not included in the original registration, it should be added to the system.

For example, a company that was exporting frozen vegetables may later start exporting processed vegetable snacks. This new product category should be updated.

➜ Change in Product Description

Sometimes the product name, packaging description, or specifications change over time. These changes may seem small, but they should still be reflected in the official registration record.

➜ Correction of Earlier Mistakes

In some cases, companies notice mistakes in the original registration. It could be a spelling error, incorrect product category, or missing information. These errors should be corrected as soon as possible.

➜ Change in Manufacturing Process

If the production process changes significantly, such as introducing new processing methods or ingredients, the product information may need to be updated.

➜ Regulatory Updates

From time to time, Chinese authorities introduce new regulatory requirements. When these changes happen, exporters may need to review and update their registration details accordingly.

Important Changes Businesses Should Know for 2026

In recent years, China has made several improvements to its import control system. These changes are meant to improve transparency and ensure that imported food products meet safety standards.

For exporters, this means that maintaining accurate and updated information in GACC registration has become even more important.

Companies exporting food to China should regularly review their registration details to make sure that all information is correct and matches their current business operations.

Ignoring updates can lead to problems during shipment inspections.

Step-by-Step Process to Update Product Information

Updating product information in GACC registration is usually done through the official online system used by overseas manufacturers.

The process is generally straightforward if the company has the correct documents and information ready.

Step 1: Access the Registration System

The first step is to log in to the official system where the GACC registration is managed. Companies usually access their registration profile using their login credentials and registration number.

Step 2: Review the Existing Product Information

After logging in, the company should review the current product information already recorded in the system. This helps identify which details need to be updated or corrected.

Step 3: Select the Option to Modify Information

Most systems provide an option to edit or modify the registration details. This section allows companies to update product-related information.

Step 4: Enter the Updated Product Details

At this stage, the company can add or change product information such as:

• Product name
• Product category
• Description of the product
• Manufacturing process
• Packaging details

It is important to make sure that the information matches the actual product being exported.

Step 5: Upload Supporting Documents

Depending on the type of update, supporting documents may be required. These documents help authorities verify the new information provided by the company.

Step 6: Submit the Update Request

Once all the changes have been entered and documents uploaded, the company can submit the request for review.

Step 7: Review by Authorities

After submission, the authorities review the update request. If everything is correct and complete, the updated information is approved and recorded in the system.

Documents That May Be Required

While the exact documents may vary depending on the type of update, companies are usually asked to provide supporting information.

Common documents include:

→ Business registration certificate

→ Product specification sheet

→ Manufacturing process details

→ Quality or safety certificates

→ Export documentation

Providing accurate documents helps authorities verify the changes more quickly.

Challenges Businesses Often Face

Although the process sounds simple, many exporters face difficulties when updating product information.

One common challenge is understanding the correct product category. If the category is entered incorrectly, it may lead to complications during approval.

Another challenge is documentation requirements. Authorities may ask for additional proof or clarification about the product.

Language differences can also create confusion for some exporters when using the registration system.

Finally, some businesses delay updates because they assume the changes are minor. Unfortunately, even small differences can create problems during customs inspections.

Real Life Example

A food export company, GreenHarvest Foods Pvt. Ltd., planned to export a new packaged vegetable product to China but realized the product was not listed in their GACC registration. This mismatch could have caused shipment delays or rejection by the General Administration of Customs of China during customs verification.

The company approached PSR Compliance for assistance. Our experts reviewed their registration, identified the missing product category, and guided them through the update process with the correct documentation. The product information was successfully updated before shipment, allowing the exporter to clear customs smoothly and deliver the goods to their Chinese buyer without delays.

Need Help Updating Your GACC Registration?

If you are facing issues while updating product information or managing your General Administration of Customs of China registration, expert guidance can save you time and prevent shipment delays. The team at PSR Compliance helps exporters handle GACC registration, product updates, and compliance requirements smoothly.

📞 Call our experts today: 8796104190 to get quick assistance and ensure your exports to China move without problems.

1. What is the CIFER system in GACC registration?

CIFER is the online portal used by the General Administration of Customs of China for registering overseas food manufacturers exporting to China.

2. When should exporters update product information in CIFER?

Exporters must update CIFER registration within 60 days whenever there is a change in product details, HS codes, address, or company information.

3. How can I update product details in the CIFER portal?

Log in to the CIFER system and submit changes through the “Application for Modification” section.

4. Can I add new products or HS codes to my existing CIFER registration?

Yes, exporters can add new products or HS codes by submitting a modification application in the CIFER system.

5. Is supporting documentation required for CIFER product updates?

Yes, updated annexures such as signed and stamped Annexure 5-2-7 may need to be submitted online and via courier.

6. What happens if CIFER modification application is rejected?

If a modification request is rejected, you must submit a new modification application because the rejected one cannot be edited.

7. Do I need a new CIFER registration if my factory location changes?

Yes, major changes like new manufacturing location or production facility may require a fresh CIFER registration.

8. How long does CIFER product modification approval take?

CIFER modification requests usually take several weeks depending on document verification and authority review.

9. Do exporters need to upgrade the old 11-digit GACC registration number?

Yes, exporters must update their 11-digit number to the new 18-digit format as required by GACC Announcement No. 105 of 2024.

10. Which authority verifies CIFER product updates in India?

Indian exporters usually submit updates through their competent authority such as APEDA or the Spices Board.

11. What information must be filled while submitting CIFER modification requests?

All mandatory fields marked with a red asterisk (*) in the CIFER portal must be completed accurately.

12. Can exporters modify company details in CIFER registration?

Yes, changes in company name, legal representative, or address must be updated through the modification application process.