To establish a distillery (alcohol production facility) in China, you’ll need to complete a series of legal procedures and obtain specific Licenses and permits. Here’s a step-by-step guide in English:
Business License: Register your company with the Local Administration for Market Regulation (SAMR). Choose a business structure (e.g., LLC, joint venture) and specify your business scope to include "alcohol production."Tax Registration: Register with the local tax authority after obtaining the business license.2. Industry-Specific Licenses
Food Production License (SC License): Apply for a Food Production License (with the "SC" code) from the Market Supervision Bureau. This is mandatory for all food and beverage production facilities.Alcohol Production License: Obtain a Alcohol Production License from the Local Commerce Department or Industry and Information Technology Bureau. This license is specific to alcoholic beverages and requires additional documentation (e.g., production capacity, quality control plans).Note: Regulations vary by alcohol type (e.g., beer, spirits, wine). For spirits production, stricter controls apply.3. Environmental and Safety Approvals
Environmental Impact Asses***ent (EIA): Submit an EIA report to the Local Ecology and Environment Bureau. Approval is required before construction begins.Fire Safety Inspection: Pass a fire safety inspection conducted by the Fire Department, especially critical for facilities handling flammable materials (e.g., ethanol).4. Quality and Safety Compliance
Product Quality Standards: Ensure compliance with GB Standards (China’s national standards) for alcohol production, packaging, and labeling.Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP): Implement food safety management systems if producing for export.5. Customs and Excise Taxes (if applicable)
Customs Registration: Required for importing/exporting alcohol. Register with the General Administration of Customs (GAC).Excise Tax Registration: Alcoholic beverages are subject to consumption taxes. Register with the tax authority for compliance.6. Trademark and Branding
Trademark Registration: Protect your brand by registering trademarks with the China National Intellectual Property Administration (CNIPA).Key Considerations
Local Regulations: Requirements may vary by province/city. Consult local authorities early.Production Scale: Larger facilities face stricter scrutiny (e.g., environmental permits, fire safety).Foreign Investors: If you’re a foreign entity, additional approvals (e.g., MOFCOM for foreign investment) and partnerships may apply.Summary of Required Documents
1. Business license
2. Food Production License (SC)
3. Alcohol Production License
4. Environmental approval (EIA)
5. Fire safety certificate
6. Tax registration
7. Trademark registration (optional but recommended)
Plan for 6–12 months to complete all procedures. Work with local legal/consulting experts to navigate complex regulations efficiently.
