Gold Jewellery → China

Personal-use gold up to 50 g exempt; declare excess

Details

China General Administration of Customs treats personal gold ornaments up to 50 g (in any combination of pieces) as duty-free for travelers. Quantities above 50 g must be declared on the red channel and may attract import duty plus VAT under the personal-articles tax schedule (commonly 30% for jewellery). Investment-grade gold bars and bullion require a separate import licence and are not eligible for the personal-use channel.

Quantity limit

50 g of jewellery for personal use

Documentation required

• Customs declaration form (red channel) above 50 g

Legal reference

GAC Announcement No. 54 of 2010 (Personal Articles Schedule)

At the airport

1. Gold bars, gold coins, and high-value jewellery (typically above CNY 5,000 total) must be declared at Chinese customs. Mark the relevant box on the Customs Declaration Form.
2. At the Red Channel at PVG or PEK, present the items with purchase receipts. Customs officers may require PBOC gold import documentation for commercial quantities (over 50g gold bar).
3. Pay customs duty on excess amounts (typically 17% VAT + import duty). Retain the duty receipt. Failure to declare can result in confiscation and a fine under Customs Law.

Practical advice

Wear what you'd normally wear; pack and declare anything substantial. Keep purchase receipts and note that 'personal use' is judged on quantity and pattern, not solely declared intent.

Customs authority

General Administration of Customs of China (GACC) · http://www.customs.gov.cn