How to export semiconductors from the UK to China

Check the part and the buyer’s import route before quoting

For semiconductors and integrated circuits, start with the technical specification: the UK dual-use list’s electronics category can cover these goods, and control status depends on the individual product. Have the Chinese importer establish the tariff line and applicable import requirements before you commit to supply. The cross-border retail list covers only particular sensor and actuator lines. For finished phones, see our guide to exporting mobile phones to China.

Under HS 8541-8542 (17 subheadings), HMRC recorded £122.0m of UK goods exports to mainland China under 17 HS6 subheadings in 2025 (2024: £100.8m, +21%).

For UK exports under HS 8541-8542 (17 subheadings): Exports to Hong Kong under the same codes were £129.7m. January to July 2026: £79.3m against £68.1m in the same months of 2025 (+16.5%).

Resolve UK classification, controls and export paperwork

Find the correct UK commodity code and classify the specification against the UK Strategic Export Control Lists before quoting. Distinguish processors and controllers under HS 854231, memories under HS 854232 and amplifiers under HS 854233. The largest listed UK export line to mainland China was 85411000, diodes excluding photosensitive diodes and LEDs: £34.7m in 2025 under HS 854110. That is the tariff-line total, not sales of your particular diode.

For exports from England, Scotland or Wales, arrange a GB EORI and the online export declaration. Supply the commodity code, value, weight, packaging, destination, transport and invoice and packing-list references; the carrier needs the invoice and any export licences or certificates. Mainland China licence applications are assessed case by case against the UK Strategic Export Licensing Criteria, so settle the control question before making a shipment commitment.

Price against the Chinese tariff line and import VAT

Most of the listed Chinese tariff lines carry 0% MFN duty. HS 854151 needs particular attention: its Chinese subheadings include rates of 11%, 9% and 8% alongside 0%. Give the importer the specification needed to distinguish these lines. Duty and import VAT add to landed cost and therefore shape the price the importer can offer.

The VAT Law sets the standard import VAT rate at 13%, subject to its exceptions. Import VAT is calculated on customs value plus customs duty plus consumption tax, multiplied by the applicable rate. The importer’s customs broker or adviser confirms whether consumption tax applies to these parts and the VAT treatment of the shipment.

Use cross-border retail only for the listed parts

The cross-border e-commerce retail import list includes 85415111, semiconductor sensors detecting humidity or air pressure, excluding goods in the prohibited import catalogue’s seventh batch. It also includes 85415129, other semiconductor actuators, excluding used electromechanical goods whose import is prohibited or restricted. These entries do not extend the retail route to every semiconductor or chip.

Listed goods entering through bonded 1210 or direct 9610 retail channels are supervised as personal-use articles. First-import licence, registration and filing requirements are not applied, except for suspended epidemic-area goods or emergency risk handling. Consumers must accept the risk notice before ordering, including that the goods are for personal use and may not be resold.

The overseas retail business carries the main responsibility for product quality and safety. It must appoint a mainland-registered company to register with customs, declare truthfully and share civil liability. Establish that arrangement before offering a listed sensor or actuator through this route.

Find and check the Chinese importer

Ask a prospective importer which part numbers it wants, which Chinese tariff lines it proposes and how the parts will be used. Compare those answers with your technical specifications and export-control assessment. Cambridge China Bridge’s own staff in China find and check Chinese importers and distributors for UK brands; if an importer has already approached you, our staff check that company before stock is sent or anything is signed.

We prepare registration and label work with licensed partners in China. The importer of record and any required cross-border e-commerce agent remain licensed partners in China; the brand’s own filings stay the brand’s. We check with licensed partners. Discuss importer checks through our export-to-China service.