Chinese Mainland
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Overview of the Liquor Business License in China

Foreign investors looking to import, export, wholesale, or retail alcoholic beverages in mainland China must obtain a Liquor Business License before commencing sales. This applies to all categories of alcohol, including spirits, wine, and beer.

The Liquor Business License is issued by the provincial liquor monopoly management department and serves as the legal certificate authorizing the holder to operate as an alcohol retail unit or individual seller.

Key Facts

  • The liquor production license is examined and approved by the Provincial Economic and Trade Commission.
  • The wholesale license is inspected and approved by the Municipal Economic and Trade Bureau.
  • The retail license is handled by the County Economic and Trade Bureau.
  • Licenses must be renewed every three years and are subject to annual review.

Two Types of Liquor Licenses

China issues two primary categories of liquor license depending on the scale and nature of the business operation: wholesale and retail.

1. Alcohol Wholesale License

The wholesale license is intended for businesses engaged in large-scale distribution of alcoholic products. Applicants must meet the following requirements:

Wholesale License Requirements
Registered capital of more than CNY 500,000
Operating area of at least 50 square meters
Storage area of at least 80 square meters with compliant facilities
Health Permit issued by the health administration department
At least 2 professionals with alcohol product knowledge
Stable, long-term supply pipeline
Producer-seller agreement or power of attorney (originals required; Chinese translation if foreign-language)
Manufacturer’s business license, health permit, and alcohol production license (sealed copies)
Quality standards documentation for the products to be distributed
Domestic liquor: Qualified inspection report from a statutory testing institution
Imported alcohol: Hygiene Certificate from the Entry-Exit Inspection and Quarantine Bureau

2. Alcohol Retail License

The retail license is required for enterprises or individuals selling alcohol directly to consumers. Applicants must first obtain a Food Circulation Permit from the State Administration for Industry and Commerce before applying for the Liquor Retail License from the local liquor monopoly department.

Retail License Requirements
Applicant must be an independent legal person, partnership, or self-employed individual
Registered capital of more than CNY 100,000
Business premises of at least 20 square meters
Valid Food Circulation Permit
Valid business license
At least 1 professional with knowledge of alcohol regulations

Wholesale vs. Retail License Comparison

Requirement Wholesale Retail
Registered Capital > CNY 500,000 > CNY 100,000
Premises Size ≥ 50 sqm (operating) + 80 sqm (storage) ≥ 20 sqm
Qualified Staff At least 2 At least 1
Approving Authority Municipal Economic and Trade Bureau County Economic and Trade Bureau
Renewal Cycle Every 3 years Every 3 years
Chinese Mainland