China updates pesticide residue limits affecting fruit and vegetable imports

China has published a revised national food safety standard setting updated maximum pesticide residue limits for foods, including fresh fruit and vegetables, strengthening regulatory controls for both domestic and imported produce, according to the USDA Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS).

The new standard, GB 2763-2026, took effect on 1 March 2026. It replaces the previous version of China’s pesticide residue rules and updates the national system used to monitor food safety.

The revised standard establishes 10,749 maximum residue limits (MRLs) covering 585 pesticides in different food products. The update also introduces 370 new residue limits and revises 23 existing ones, expanding the range of substances and products regulated under the system.

The rules apply to a wide range of foods, including fruits and vegetables, which are subject to routine inspection to ensure compliance with safety requirements.

All imported produce must meet China’s residue limits before entering the market. Exporters are required to follow the updated standards when shipping fruit and vegetables to China, as non-compliant shipments may face rejection at the border.

Read the full report here.

source and photo: fas.usda.gov