What is The Compliance Process for Exporting Dredging Vessels

2026-03-19 09:36:13     Category：FAQs & Supports     Browse number：164     Release time：2026-03-19 09:36:13

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Compliance Process for Exporting Dredgers

(Based on MOFCOM Announcement No. 28, 2017)

According to Announcement No. 28 of 2017 issued by the Ministry of Commerce (MOFCOM) and the General Administration of Customs, the export of dredgers meeting specific technical specifications is subject to export licensing control.

The compliance process generally consists of the following three main steps:

1. Scope of Control

First, it is essential to determine if the vessel falls under the controlled categories. Only dredgers meeting the following technical specifications are subject to this regulation:

Trailing Suction Hopper Dredgers: Hopper capacity ≥ 1500 m³, OR dredging depth ≥ 15m, OR equipped with bow unloading (thruster) devices.

Cutter Suction Dredgers: Cutter power ≥ 500 kW, OR dredging depth ≥ 15m, OR total installed power ≥ 2000 kW.

Grab Dredgers: Grab capacity ≥ 4 m³, OR dredging depth ≥ 15m.

Suction Dredgers: Hopper capacity ≥ 500 m³, OR total installed power ≥ 1000 kW.

Self-propelled Self-discharging Mud Barges: Hopper capacity ≥ 1000 m³, AND equipped with bow unloading functions and self-discharging devices.

2. Step 1: Exporter Registration

Operators engaging in the export of the above-mentioned controlled dredgers must first register with the Ministry of Commerce. No entity or individual may export these vessels without prior registration.

Reference: Measures for the Administration of Registration of Operators Exporting Sensitive Items and Technologies.

3. Step 2: Application for Export License

After registration, the exporter must apply for a "Dual-Use Items and Technologies Export License" from MOFCOM for each specific export transaction.

A. Submission of Documents

The applicant must submit the following documents:

Identity documents of the legal representative, main managers, and handling personnel.

Copies of the contract or agreement.

Technical specifications and description of the dredger.

End-user and End-use Certificate.

Other documents required by MOFCOM.

B. Review and Decision

MOFCOM will review the application and make a decision within 45 working days. For export projects that may have a significant impact on national security, the review will be reported to the State Council for approval, and the 45-day time limit shall not apply.

4. Step 3: Customs Declaration and Clearance

Once the export license is obtained, customs procedures can be initiated.

A. Customs Declaration

The exporter must present the "Dual-Use Items and Technologies Export License" to the Customs, declare the goods in accordance with regulations, and accept Customs supervision.

B. Standardized Declaration Requirements

In accordance with Customs Announcement No. 9 of 2026, exporters must pay special attention to the following declaration norms:

Remarks Column: Indicate "Subject to Export Control" in the "Remarks" column of the Customs Declaration Form and list the corresponding Dual-Use Items control code.

Specification & Model Column: Detailed technical parameters (e.g., hopper capacity, dredging depth, power) and the specific category (e.g., Trailing Suction) must be filled in.

Accompanying Documents: In addition to basic documents like contracts and invoices, any official reply letters from the export control authorities should be submitted as attachments.

The foreign buyer must provide genuine project background information and submit the following documents as required by MOFCOM:

· Detailed introduction of the buyer's company

· Detailed contact information of the buyer's company

· End-User Certificate (EUC) and proof of end-use

· End-user undertaking letter (prohibiting resale without MOFCOM's permission)