Exporting bird nests to China can be a lucrative business opportunity, but requires following strict regulations and protocols. China is the world’s largest market for edible bird nests, which are considered a delicacy and medicinal ingredient in Chinese cuisine. However, bird nests can only be exported to China if collected and processed according to international standards for sustainable and ethical harvesting.
This article will provide a step-by-step guide to legally exporting bird nests to China, covering topics such as:
- Sourcing and collecting bird nests
- Processing and packaging requirements
- Obtaining export licenses and permits
- Finding importers and distributors in China
- Shipping logistics and customs clearance
Follow these steps carefully to ensure full compliance with regulations in your home country and China. Proper documentation and certification is crucial to avoid confiscation of your shipment by customs authorities.
Sourcing and Collecting Bird Nests
The first step is sourcing high-quality bird nests in your home country from reputable suppliers. Only nests from approved bird species, such as swiftlets, can be exported to China. The two main types are white nests and red nests.
White nests from cave swiftlets are the most valuable. They should be harvested from wild bird populations without damaging their habitats. Avoid nests sourced from caves or locations where excessive harvesting occurred.
Red nests have lower market value but can still be exported. They are built under shelters and eaves by species like black-nest swiftlets. Follow sustainable collection practices, like limiting harvest periods and quantities.
Collection Methods
Nests can be collected through several methods:
- Climbing ropes to access high cave areas
- Using bamboo poles with hooks to pull down nests
- Placing nets under nesting sites and collecting fallen nests
Avoid techniques that could harm the birds, like knocking down entire nests. Regulations may prohibit such destructive practices.
Only collect from areas with stable and large swiftlet populations. Rotate collection between locations and assess environmental impact. Keep detailed records of your sourcing practices for export license applications.
Quality Inspection
Once collected, thoroughly inspect each nest:
- Ensure they are complete shapes without holes or tears
- No dark stains, feathers, or other contaminants
- Solid and sturdy construction is preferred
Nests should not be washed or cleaned prior to export. Carefully select the highest quality nests without impurities or damage.
Processing and Packaging Requirements
After sourcing and inspection, bird nests must undergo specialized processing and packaging to meet China’s import regulations:
Processing
- Nests should be dried naturally in a clean, well-ventilated facility.
- Avoid using excessive heat, sunlight, or chemicals during drying.
- Once fully dried, nests become brittle and lighter in color.
- Dried nests may need to be humidified before packing to prevent damage.
Packaging
- Only food-grade, non-toxic materials are permitted for packaging.
- Transparent plastic containers or food-safe aluminum foil is recommended.
- Vacuum seal or pack with desiccant packets to protect from moisture.
- Label packages with type of bird nest and date of harvest.
- Boxes should contain 20-50 kg of nests each for international shipping.
Documentation
For every batch, prepare documents including:
- Export permit from your national authority
- Certificate of origin specifying species and origin
- Sanitary certificate from regulated food safety agency
- Lab test reports showing no contaminants
- Invoice and packing list with complete details of contents
Attach copies of all documents both inside and outside each shipping box. Strict adherence to processing standards and documentation requirements is crucial for customs clearance.
Obtaining Export Licenses and Permits
Exporting bird nests internationally requires various licenses and permits from multiple government agencies.
Export Permit
An export permit specifically for bird nests is needed from the wildlife trade authority in your country. The application process will require:
- Business registration and tax documents
- Collection area locations and harvest records
- Export history and list of approved buyers (for renewal)
- Sourcing and processing facility information
- Payment of permit fees
Allow up to 8 weeks for new permit approval. Permits are valid for 6-12 months and can be renewed if in good standing.
CITES Certificate
Bird nests fall under CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species) agreement. A CITES export permit from your management authority confirms sustainable and legal sourcing.
Apply for your CITES permit at the same time as the export permit. The CITES permit is issued per shipment and has validity of 6 months.
Health Certificates
Sanitary and health certificates are issued by food safety or veterinary agencies. These documents verify proper processing and the nests’ suitability for human consumption.
Lab reports may be required showing nests are free of contaminants like pesticides, lead, or E. coli. Testing can be done weeks in advance of export.
Other Documents
Your national customs agency will expect documentation like commercial invoices, packing lists, and bill of lading for each shipment. Consult your local Chamber of Commerce for full requirements.
Finding Importers and Distributors in China
Developing relationships with credible bird nest importers and distributors in China takes extensive research:
Industry Associations
Join relevant associations in China to network with traders and promote your nest export business:
- China Edible Bird’s Nest Association
- China Chamber of Commerce for Import and Export of Foodstuffs
- Guangdong Imported Bird’s Nest Association
Attend trade shows and conferences to meet potential partners in person. Offer small samples to demonstrate your product quality.
Online Research
Search importer directories and e-commerce sites for China companies already importing nests:
- Alibaba.com
- Globalsources.com
- Made-in-China.com
Vet potential partners carefully – inspect their business licenses, import records, facilities, and client reviews. Rushed deals can lead to problems with unreliable importers.
Sales Agreements
Once you find a legitimate importer, negotiate long-term supply agreements. Clearly specify pricing, volumes, quality control, packaging, shipping, and payment terms.
Formal sales contracts and purchase orders will be required for your export permit renewal. Maintain strong relationships through prompt delivery and open communication.
Shipping Logistics and Customs Clearance
Navigating the shipping, documentation, and customs process requires coordination with your importer:
Shipping and Documentation
Your importer will need to provide:
- Import permit issued by China Entry-Exit Inspection and Quarantine Bureau
- Original proforma invoice and packing lists
- Labels and documentation in Chinese
You must prepare consolidator, forwarder, and shipper contracts for transporting the bird nests. Sea freight is preferred for cost and document processing time.
Customs Pre-inspection
On arrival at Chinese ports, shipments undergo documentary review and physical inspection by customs officers:
- All permits, licenses, health certificates will be verified
- Boxes opened and nests examined for compliance
- Samples may be taken for laboratory testing
Product testing can take 1-2 weeks. Ensure your documents are flawless and nests meet all standards to avoid shipment rejection.
Import Duties and Taxes
If clearing customs, the importer pays import duties around 15% of the declared value. Applicable taxes include:
- Tariff rate quota tax up to 20%
- Value added tax around 13%
- Consumption tax up to 20%
Negotiate Incoterms with your importer to agree who pays what duties and taxes. This impacts your pricing and profit margins.
Clearing Customs and Delivery
After paying duties and passing tests, the importer can clear customs and have the nests trucked to their warehouse. You should receive payment from your importer once the shipment is fully cleared.
Follow up with your importer to ensure on-time delivery and proper handling through to sale to end consumers. A positive experience will help build a lasting trade relationship.
Conclusion
Exporting bird nests to meet China’s huge demand can be highly lucrative but requires strict adherence to regulations. Sourcing and preparation according to ecological standards is crucial for approval. Developing relationships with professional importers simplifies the complex shipping and customs process. With diligent preparation and flawless documentation, your nest exports can smoothly wing their way to success in the Chinese market.