(Source: https://pltfrm.com.cn)
Introduction
Expanding into China’s cross‑border e‑commerce market through Tmall Global presents a huge opportunity for overseas brands — but compliance with platform rules is non‑negotiable. One of the most critical aspects of operating on this marketplace is knowing which items are prohibited from being sold. Understanding these restrictions helps overseas brands prevent listing violations, avoid penalties, and maintain long‑term success on the platform.
1. Prohibited Products Under National Law
1.1 Legal Restrictions
Platforms like Tmall Global do not allow listing of goods that are prohibited or restricted by applicable Chinese laws unless a valid government permit is obtained. This includes products that may violate customs or import legislation.
1.2 Platform Requirement
Tmall Global’s user agreement explicitly prohibits listing products that are illegal or restricted under local or destination country laws. Merchants must ensure that every product they list complies with these legal standards.
2. Safety and Hazard Goods
2.1 Flammable and Explosive Items
Goods that pose safety risks — such as combustible materials, fireworks, or flammable liquids — are generally prohibited from cross‑border e‑commerce platforms because they endanger logistics and customs clearance.
2.2 Hazardous Chemicals & Toxic Goods
Products containing toxic or corrosive substances, hazardous waste, or other dangerous chemicals cannot be shipped or listed due to stringent international and Chinese transport and safety regulations.
3. Biological and Controlled Items
3.1 Plants and Animals
Live animals, plants, and their reproductive materials are typically banned unless special quarantine arrangements are in place, due to biosecurity and quarantine rules enforced by Chinese customs.
3.2 Illegal Drugs and Poisons
Any narcotics, addictive or psychotropic substances, and potent poisons fall under prohibited categories because of both international and domestic restrictions.
4. Sensitive Goods and Intellectual Property Concerns
4.1 Sensitive Electronics and Batteries
Goods with built‑in batteries, magnets, or electronic chips are often restricted or require special handling and documentation, making them difficult or prohibited for cross‑border e‑commerce customs clearance.
4.2 Counterfeit and Unlicensed Products
Products that infringe intellectual property rights or are considered counterfeit are prohibited from being listed. Platforms enforce these rules to protect consumers and maintain marketplace integrity.
Case Study:
A European tech accessory brand learned that wireless speakers with built‑in lithium batteries were flagged as restricted goods during onboarding on Tmall Global. After adjusting its product portfolio to comply with customs safety classifications and providing appropriate documentation, the brand successfully listed compliant products without delays and mitigated refund risks due to prohibited item removals.
Conclusion
For overseas brands selling on Tmall Global, understanding and adhering to prohibited item lists is essential for marketplace success. Always verify compliance with both platform standards and Chinese import laws before listing products to avoid fines, delisting, or reputational damage.
PLTFRM is an international brand consulting agency that works with companies such as Red, TikTok, Tmall, Baidu, and other well‑known Chinese internet e‑commerce platforms. We have been working with Chile Cherries for many years, reaching Chinese consumers in depth through different platforms and realizing that Chile Cherries’ exports in China account for 97% of the total exports in Asia. Contact us, and we will help you find the best China e‑commerce platform for you. Search PLTFRM for a free consultation!
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