September 10, 2026
China’s pulse trade is facing a more complex logistics environment, as rising freight costs, tighter customs requirements and quality controls add new challenges for importers and exporters. For international traders, this discussion underlined how careful preparation, quality control and a clear understanding of China’s import procedures can be critical to limiting delays, costs and losses.
China’s logistics landscape is becoming increasingly important to pulse trade, with geopolitical disruptions affecting shipping capacity, insurance and freight costs. This panel highlighted the impact of the disruption at Novorossiysk, while noting that some terminals remain operational. In Qingdao, imports of small grains and pulses exceeded 1.13 million tons in the first half of 2026, up more than 30% year on year, although panelists said the pace is unlikely to continue at the same level as inventories remain elevated and domestic demand is slow to absorb incoming cargo.
Customs procedures were another major focus, with panelists stressing the need for exporters and importers to prepare documentation, registrations and labeling correctly before cargo arrives. They also discussed the risks surrounding bill-of-lading copies, customs inspections, pesticide residues and other quality issues, emphasizing that customs clearance does not resolve commercial disputes between buyers and sellers.
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Qingdao Pulses Congress / China / shipping / logistics / imports / customs / freight / trade / supply chain / geopolitics / Qingdao
Disclaimer: The opinions or views expressed in this publication are those of the authors or quoted persons. They do not purport to reflect the opinions or views of the Global Pulse Confederation or its members.
