The National Health Commission (NHC) and the State Administration for Market Regulation (SAMR) have made a significant amendment to the National Food Safety Standard for Raw Milk. The published amendment introduces stricter criteria for raw milk production and inspection processes. This amendment came into effect on the date of publication, and raw milk producers are expected to comply with the new requirements. The new regulation aims to further strengthen China’s food safety standards and enhance the effectiveness of inspection processes in the sector.  

China notified the World Trade Organisation (WTO) of these changes on 25 October 2023. This step is considered an important development in terms of transparency and security in international trade. China announced these changes to the global trading community in order to comply with international trade requirements. This process reflects China’s increased attention and care in the area of food safety and its commitment to producing high-quality and safe products worldwide.  

With the new standards, a series of new practices and inspection processes will be introduced for raw milk producers. In particular, hygiene conditions during production are expected to be improved, milk processing techniques will be monitored more closely, and quality control processes will be made more detailed. In addition, stricter standards will be applied during the transportation and storage of raw milk products. These innovations are expected to contribute to providing healthy and safe food to both producers and consumers. 

In conclusion, these changes in China’s raw milk production and control processes aim to bring the country into line with global food safety standards and improve quality in the domestic market. These changes may have significant implications for both local producers and international business partners. In particular, exporting companies are advised to closely monitor changes in the process as they will need to comply with the new regulations.