Hub: E-commerce hub · Trade: Trade & customs · VAT: VAT guide · Outbound EU: NL/EU e-com · Tracker: Trade measures.
Common channel models (business map)
| Model | Sketch | Watch-outs |
|---|---|---|
| CBEC retail (bonded / direct mail styles) | Consumer orders fulfilled under CBEC frameworks | Positive lists, transaction limits, platform responsibilities, labelling |
| General trade import + domestic e-com | Importer of record, then Tmall/JD retail | Full import compliance; entity and VAT; after-sales |
| Export from China to overseas marketplaces | Chinese sellers on Amazon/EU platforms | Destination product rules, VAT/IOSS, IP, sanctions · playbook |
| Overseas warehouse | Inventory closer to consumer | Inventory ownership, returns, local entity needs |
Selling into China — diligence themes
- Who is importer of record / CBEC enterprise of record
- Product eligibility (cosmetics, health foods, devices may need extra regimes)
- Chinese labelling and instructions where required
- Platform agreements and authorised brand stores
- IP clearance to avoid complaints from prior trademark squatters
- Data flows for customer PI · PIPL
Chinese sellers going out
- Destination product safety and packaging rules
- Marketplace IP and account risk (suspensions)
- Export control / sanctions screening for goods and buyers · tracker
- ESG and forced-labour documentation when platforms or brands demand it · ESG roadmap
- Returns and reverse logistics cost models
Ops friction that creates legal risk
- Mis-declared HS codes to “make the order work”
- Split shipments to game personal import thresholds
- Unauthorised parallel sellers destroying MAP and compliance
- Influencer claims that violate advertising or product rules · healthcare: device ads
Channel launch checklist
- [ ] Channel model selected with tax/customs advisor
- [ ] Product regulatory eligibility reviewed
- [ ] IP clearance (China TM + content rights)
- [ ] Platform contracts and brand authorisation sorted
- [ ] Labelling / after-sales plan in Chinese
- [ ] Data processing map for customer orders
- [ ] Returns SOP and liability allocation
- [ ] Monitoring for unauthorised listings
Counsel
E-commerce hub IP takedown playbook Trade lawyers Find counsel
General information only—not customs or tax advice. CBEC rules and positive lists change. Last reviewed: August 2026 · China Legal Portal Editorial