Yes, absinthe is legal in China, but its production, import, and sale are tightly controlled under national and local regulations. The National Health Commission’s 2021 Food Safety Standard for Alcoholic Beverages (GB 2757-2021) restricts thujone content to ≤10 mg/kg, aligning with international limits. Local customs (e.g., Shanghai Port) enforce these standards rigorously, often rejecting shipments exceeding thresholds. Recent 2026 compliance directives from the State Administration for Market Regulation (SAMR) further tighten labeling requirements for imported spirits, mandating explicit thujone declarations.
Key Regulations for Absinthe in China
- Thujone Limits: Absinthe must contain ≤10 mg/kg thujone under GB 2757-2021, enforced by the National Health Commission. Products exceeding this face import bans.
- Labeling Compliance: SAMR’s 2026 directives require imported absinthe to display thujone content prominently. Mislabeling risks fines or seizure.
- Licensing for Production: Domestic absinthe distilleries must obtain a Spirits Production License from the SAMR, with inspections tied to thujone testing. Unlicensed production is criminalized under the Food Safety Law.