Is there a mystery hidden in import labels? Three tips to help you distinguish between genuine and fake foreign goods

When Mr. Zhang received a limited-edition red wine ordered from overseas, he found a small label full of English on the bottle; on the bottom of the milk powder can that Ms. Li purchased as a substitute for her child, there was a string of unfamiliar digital codes. These seemingly insignificant import agency labels are actually the "identity cards" for the customs clearance of cross-border goods and hide more important secrets than price comparison labels.

The Three Behind a Single Label

According to customs data, in 2023, the number of packages returned due to label issues increased by 37% year-on-year. Compliant import agency labels must include:

• Identity Identification: 13-digit CIQ code (China Entry-Exit Inspection and Quarantine Mark)
• Information Map: Origin, production date, agent record number
• Safety Certification: Chinese warning language and ingredient list (Cosmetics need to be labeled "National Cosmetics Import Filing Number")

The case library of Zhongshitong shows that a batch of Japanese imported stationery was detained at the port for 21 days due to the lack of a Chinese-applicable age label.

The "Compliance Pitfalls" in Labels

The newly implemented import and export food safety management measures in 2024 require:

• Health food must indicate "This product cannot replace medicine" on the label
• Infant food is prohibited from using claims such as "enhancing immunity"
• The ingredient list of cosmetics must be completely consistent with the filing

A German imported protein powder was subject to a 30,000 yuan administrative penalty due to the "build muscle" statement in the English label being recognized as a functional claim.

Three Steps to Identify Reliable Import Goods

Consumers can through:

• Scan the CIQ code to check the customs declaration information
• Compare the Chinese label with the ingredient list on the official website
• Check the customs record public notice of the agent

At present, regular agents such as Zhongshitong will provide label tracing services, and you can enter the product batch number to query the complete customs clearance record.

When Labels Become a Bond of Trust

In today's explosive growth of cross-border e-commerce, that small label is not only a proof of legal compliance but also a brand's promise to consumers. The next time you purchase an import commodity, you might as well spend 30 more seconds "decoding" the label information - this may be more effective than checking the product rating to protect your rights.

What doubts have you encountered in import commodity labels? You are welcome to share your experiences in the comment section.