Kazakh Exporters Fear Disruption of Supplies to China Amid New Requirements
Kazakhstan’s feed flour producers and grain processors are facing the risk of export disruptions to China following the tightening of phytosanitary and certification requirements by Chinese authorities.
According to industry associations, in April 2026 the General Administration of Customs of China introduced updated rules requiring mandatory re-registration of exporters, revision of previously issued phytosanitary certificates, and stricter compliance controls for exported products.
A key requirement for continuing exports is inclusion in the official registry of China’s customs authorities. Currently, only 27 out of 66 Kazakh companies that applied have been approved, while the remaining exporters must address identified compliance issues.
The new regulations also impose strict controls on product composition: only wheat, barley, and bran are permitted, with a complete ban on additives and raw materials from third countries. Particular emphasis is placed on full traceability of product origin and accuracy of accompanying documentation.
In response to these challenges, Kazakh businesses, together with government bodies, have initiated a number of measures. These include accelerating the registration of companies in the Chinese registry, revising phytosanitary certificates, and developing mechanisms to protect exporters from penalties, including the issuance of force majeure certificates through Atameken National Chamber of Entrepreneurs and the Foreign Trade Chamber of Kazakhstan.
A dedicated working group is expected to be established to coordinate efforts among all stakeholders. The primary objective is to prevent a halt in exports and ensure effective interaction with Chinese regulators.
Industry representatives note that China is not closing its market but is instead transforming it into a strictly regulated and fully transparent system. Under these conditions, access to the Chinese market will depend less on export volumes and more on compliance with traceability, quality, and data accuracy requirements.