Can I export leftover or older-batch cosmetics to China?

Leftover or older-batch cosmetics can be exported to China only when they still correspond to a valid filing or registration, remain within their usable life, carry a compliant Chinese label and meet import inspection-quarantine requirements. There is no leftover-stock exemption. A batch made to an old formula that no longer matches the current file, or a batch that has expired or lost stability, should not be placed on the mainland market.

Published 11 November 2026 · Updated 11 November 2026

How to judge the path

General-trade import of finished cosmetics still generally requires the filing or registration to exist before import. Customs and inspection-quarantine checks are a separate process.

Relabelling an old overseas carton with a new Chinese sticker does not repair a formula mismatch or an expired period of use.

Typical documents, tests and labels

Compare batch records, formula versions and shelf-life dating with the official file before shipping. Jinshang Testing organizes the compliance work. Testing is coordinated with partner laboratories, and those laboratories issue the reports they perform. After a record is issued, check it on the official NMPA filing query https://hzpba.nmpa.gov.cn/gccx/ and the NMPA data-search page https://datasearch.nmpa.gov.cn/datasearch/home-index.html#category=hzp.

Cautions

Do not describe close-to-expiry stock as “new generation” on China listings. False dates or covered manufacturing information violate labelling rules.

Questions we are often asked

Can I import last season’s SPF bottles under a new ordinary moisturizer filing?

No. If the bottles are sunscreens, they must match a sunscreen registration. An ordinary moisturizer filing cannot cover them.

What if the overseas label changed but the formula did not?

The Chinese label and the original pack should correspond. Update the file when the rules require a change, and do not ship artwork that contradicts the record.