Published by ChinaMNC · Fengcheng

China Opens Public Consultation on Revised Food Safety Law: What Foreign Founders Need to Know

China's State Administration for Market Regulation is seeking public comments on a draft revision of the Food Safety Law. Foreign founders in food and beverage should note the November 10, 2026 deadline and the three channels for submitting feedback.

China Seeks Public Input on Food Safety Law Revision

On October 10, 2026, China's State Administration for Market Regulation (SAMR) announced a public consultation on a draft revision of the Food Safety Law of the People's Republic of China. The draft was prepared by SAMR to implement the “four strictest” directives on food safety and to safeguard public health and safety. The consultation is open to all relevant units and individuals, with a submission deadline of November 10, 2026.

For foreign founders building or operating a business in China's food and beverage sector, this is a key regulatory development to monitor. Although the full draft text and explanatory notes are attached separately, the announcement itself provides clear guidance on how to participate in the process. Below is a practical summary for foreign entrepreneurs.

Why This Consultation Matters for Foreign Founders

Food safety compliance is a foundational requirement for any company manufacturing, importing, distributing, or selling food products in China. Revisions to the Food Safety Law can affect licensing, labeling, import procedures, and operational standards. By engaging with the consultation, foreign founders can:

• Stay informed about potential regulatory changes that may impact their business.
• Submit comments or suggestions based on their operational experience.
• Demonstrate good faith engagement with Chinese regulators.

Even if you are not yet registered in China, understanding the direction of food safety regulation is valuable for market entry planning.

How to Submit Comments: Three Official Channels

SAMR has provided three methods for submitting feedback. All submissions must be received by November 10, 2026. Foreign founders should note that the channels are in Chinese, and submissions should be made in Chinese to ensure they are processed.

1. Online via the SAMR Website

Visit the official SAMR website at http://www.samr.gov.cn. On the homepage, locate the “Interaction” (互动) section and click on “Solicitation Surveys” (征集调查). There you can submit your comments directly through an online form.

2. By Email

Send your comments to [email protected]. The subject line of your email must clearly state: “《中华人民共和国食品安全法（修订草案征求意见稿）》公开征求意见” (Public Consultation on the Draft Revision of the Food Safety Law of the People's Republic of China). This ensures your email is correctly routed.

3. By Postal Mail

Mail your written comments to:

Food Coordination Department
State Administration for Market Regulation
No. 9, Madiandong Road, Haidian District, Beijing
Postal Code: 100088

On the envelope, clearly mark: “《中华人民共和国食品安全法（修订草案征求意见稿）》公开征求意见” (Public Consultation on the Draft Revision of the Food Safety Law of the People's Republic of China).

Key Details at a Glance

• Issuing body: State Administration for Market Regulation (SAMR)
• Document: Draft Revision of the Food Safety Law of the People's Republic of China (Consultation Draft)
• Consultation opened: October 10, 2026
• Deadline for comments: November 10, 2026
• Attachments: The draft text and an explanatory note on the revision are available on the SAMR website.

Practical Considerations for Foreign Founders

If you are considering submitting comments, keep the following in mind:

• Language: While not explicitly stated, official communications with Chinese regulators are typically in Chinese. Consider having your submission translated.
• Relevance: Focus your comments on provisions that directly affect your business operations or industry. Generic comments are less likely to be impactful.
• Timing: The deadline is fixed. Late submissions may not be considered.
• Documentation: Keep records of your submission for your own compliance files.

For foreign founders who are not yet familiar with Chinese regulatory processes, this consultation is also an opportunity to learn how SAMR operates and to identify areas where your business might need to adapt.

Next Steps

To review the full draft and explanatory notes, visit the SAMR website and download the attachments. If you plan to submit comments, prepare them well before the deadline. If you are already operating a food business in China, consider consulting with local legal or compliance advisors to assess the potential impact of the proposed revisions.

Foreign founders can contact ChinaMNC on WhatsApp / WeChat at +86 153 1898 8535 for help registering and operating a company in China.

This summary is based on information published by the relevant Chinese government website and is general information, not legal or tax advice.