Understanding MARA and your products market entry strategy in China

By Agrihop

This is an insight for the question: What do I need to know before register products in China?

China’s animal feed industry is one of the largest in the world, supplying feed for livestock, poultry, and aquaculture. To ensure safety, efficiency, and compliance with international trade regulations, the Chinese government has established strict controls over feed ingredients. The Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs (MARA) oversees the approval and regulation of feed ingredients to ensure their safety and effectiveness.

Regulatory Framework

MARA is the primary regulatory body responsible for approving feed ingredients in China. The approval process is governed by multiple regulations, including:

Regulations on the Administration of Feed and Feed Additives (Decree No. 609, 2011) – Establishes the general framework for feed ingredient registration and approval.
National Feed Safety Standards – Set limits for contaminants and ensure the safety of feed ingredients.
Catalog of Feed Ingredients and Feed Additives – Specifies which ingredients are permitted for use in China.
Approval Process for Feed Ingredients

1. Application Submission

For a new feed ingredient to be approved in China, companies must submit a formal application to MARA. The application must include:
- The name and classification of the ingredient
- Its intended use and mode of action
- Scientific data supporting its safety and efficacy
- Manufacturing process details
- Quality control and safety standards
2. Risk Assessment and Safety Evaluation

Once the application is submitted, MARA conducts a rigorous risk assessment that includes:
- Toxicological studies to determine any potential health risks
- Environmental impact analysis to assess sustainability concerns
- Residue and contamination limits to ensure compliance with food safety standards
MARA may require additional laboratory testing or third-party verification before approval is granted.

3. Public Consultation and Expert Review

MARA often opens a public consultation period where industry stakeholders can provide feedback on the proposed ingredient. Additionally, scientific experts review the application to ensure it meets China’s regulatory and safety requirements.

4. Inclusion in the Approved Catalog

If the ingredient passes all safety and efficacy evaluations, it is added to the Catalog of Approved Feed Ingredients and Feed Additives. This catalog is regularly updated and only includes substances that have been deemed safe for use in animal feed.

Key Considerations for Foreign Companies

Foreign companies looking to introduce new feed ingredients into the Chinese market must:
- Appoint a local representative to handle regulatory approvals
- Ensure compliance with China’s safety and quality standards
- Provide extensive safety data to support their application
- Obtain approval before selling any feed ingredients in China
Recent Updates and Trends

China has been updating its feed ingredient regulations to align with global safety standards. For example:
- In 2024, MARA added new feed additives to its catalog, including functional ingredients aimed at improving animal nutrition.
- The government has been promoting sustainable and environmentally friendly feed additives, such as probiotics and plant-based feed alternatives.
- Stricter limits on antibiotic use have led to increased demand for alternative feed additives.
Conclusion

The approval process for feed ingredients in China is highly regulated and requires strict compliance with MARA’s standards. Companies looking to enter the Chinese market must be prepared to undergo rigorous evaluations to ensure their ingredients meet safety, efficacy, and sustainability requirements. By staying updated with MARA’s regulatory changes, feed manufacturers can successfully navigate the approval process and expand their presence in the Chinese market.

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February 4, 2025