Sending pathology specimens abroad from China

Identify the specimen before arranging transport

Ask the sending pathology department to describe the material, its preservation method and intended use. A paraffin block, tissue section and fresh specimen should not be treated as interchangeable. Confirm what the receiving laboratory actually needs, including whether it accepts digital slides.

Confirm the customs route

GACC Decree No. 281 took effect on 1 August 2026. For material subject to special-goods health-quarantine approval, the application must be made before dispatch. The decree permits organisations and natural persons to apply, but excludes natural-person applicants for pathogenic microorganisms or material that may contain them. Ask the competent Customs office how your specimen is classified and who may apply.

Build the transfer file

• Obtain the hospital’s release instructions and the receiving laboratory’s written requirements.
• Confirm the approval, declaration and inspection documents with Customs.
• Ask the carrier about packaging, preservation and acceptance conditions before booking.
• Match the specimen identity, quantity and destination across the documents.

Do not assume luggage bypasses approval

The decree regulates accompanied carriage as well as other channels; it does not impose a blanket ban on personal carriage. A hospital letter alone does not replace required customs approval. Confirm the route before taking possession of the specimen.

Official sources

• GACC Decree No. 281, official Ministry of Commerce publication

← All posts