China to Introduce Licensing System for Bulk Transportation of Key Liquid Foods

On February 17, 2025, the China State Administration for Market Regulation (SAMR) issued a public consultation on the Food Safety Law of the People's Republic of China (Draft Amendment for Public Consultation), which proposes a licensing system for the bulk transportation of key liquid foods. Stakeholders are encouraged to submit opinions by March 18, 2025. Below are the key details of the draft amendment.

Introduction of A Licensing System for Bulk Transportation of Key Liquid Foods

Entities engaged in the bulk transportation of key liquid foods must ensure their vehicles, containers, operating personnel, and management systems are suitable for the type of food being transported. They are required to submit applications and obtain a bulk transportation permit for key liquid foods before operation. The catalog of key liquid foods will be jointly formulated by food safety supervision authorities and transportation management departments. 

Strengthened Penalties for Violations

Entities found to be engaged in the bulk transportation of key liquid foods without a valid permit will have their illegal earnings confiscated, along with fines ranging from CNY 50,000 to CNY 500,000. Non-compliance with food storage, transportation, and loading/unloading requirements will result in orders for corrective action. If non-compliance issues continue, authorities may suspend business operations, impose additional fines, and revoke permits for severe violations.

ChemLinked Comments

Food transportation connects food production, operation, and consumption, making it critical for food safety management throughout the entire supply chain. The 2024 edible oil contamination incident, caused by the mixed use of tanker trucks for both food and chemicals, sparked consumer panic and spurred legislative efforts to enhance the hygiene standards for bulk edible oil transportation (GB 44917-2024 has come into effect since February 1, 2025). In fact, there are other products with similar risks that also need to be addressed. The proposed amendment to the Food Safety Law strengthens the regulation of bulk transportation of key liquid foods by specifying hardware requirements for transportation equipment, control measures for each stage of the transportation process, and qualifications for personnel involved. These changes will further enhance the overall management of food transportation and help ensure food safety during transit.