Published by ChinaMNC ยท Funan
How a Tofu Skin Producer Secured a Full-Category Production License in China: A Case Study for Foreign Founders
Learn how Hangzhou Renyi Food obtained a full-category SC production license for soy products in Fuyang's Dongwushan Tofu Skin Industrial Park, and what it means for foreign founders navigating China's food production regulations.
Introduction
For foreign founders looking to enter China's food production sector, understanding the regulatory landscape is crucial. A recent development in Fuyang District, Hangzhou, provides a practical example of how local authorities support traditional food industries. On October 12, 2026, Hangzhou Renyi Food Co., Ltd. became the first enterprise in the Dongwushan Tofu Skin Industrial Park to obtain an SC (Food Production License) covering all categories of soy products, including deep-processed items. This milestone reflects the district's efforts to upgrade and standardize its traditional specialty food industry.
Background: Dongwushan Tofu Skin and Its Cultural Significance
Dongwushan tofu skin is not just a local product; it is a craft with over 1,300 years of history and is recognized as an intangible cultural heritage of Zhejiang Province. It is also one of Fuyang's key agricultural specialty brands. For foreign founders interested in China's food market, such heritage products can offer unique opportunities, but they also come with specific regulatory requirements.
Government Support and the Licensing Process
Since 2025, the Fuyang District Market Supervision Administration has prioritized the development of the industrial park as a key project for specialty industry support. The administration established a dedicated service team to intervene early, providing guidance on factory layout, production process optimization, and food safety system development. This support was tailored to the characteristics of the intangible cultural heritage manual techniques, with customized control standards. A green channel was opened for the entire licensing application process, significantly reducing the preparation period for the enterprise to begin production.
For foreign founders, this highlights the importance of engaging with local authorities early and leveraging available support mechanisms. China's regulatory environment can be complex, but proactive collaboration with government agencies can streamline market entry.
Expanded Production Scope and Market Opportunities
The new license obtained by Hangzhou Renyi Food expands its production from traditional tofu skin to include deep-processed soy products such as vegetarian roast goose, Xiangling rolls, and quick-frozen soy products. The company has also put into operation intelligent dust-free workshops and a product self-inspection laboratory. These additions are expected to help the company expand into domestic supermarkets, restaurant chains, and overseas export markets.
Foreign founders should note that obtaining an SC license with a broad scope can open doors to multiple sales channels. However, the process requires meticulous planning, especially regarding facility standards and food safety protocols.
Next Steps for the Industrial Park and the Region
The district market supervision administration plans to use Hangzhou Renyi Food as a benchmark to continue assisting other entities in the park with licensing. Additionally, efforts are underway to apply for a geographical indication certification trademark for Dongwushan tofu skin. This aims to develop the industry cluster, maintain food safety standards, and enhance the regional public brand for Fuyang's intangible cultural heritage food products.
For foreign investors, this signals a growing emphasis on quality and branding in China's traditional food sectors. Establishing operations in such clusters could provide access to shared resources and government support.
Practical Takeaways for Foreign Founders
- Engage with local authorities early: The Fuyang case shows that early intervention by government service teams can ease the licensing process. Foreign founders should initiate dialogue with local market supervision bureaus during the planning phase.
- Understand the SC license system: The SC license is mandatory for food production in China. It covers specific product categories, so defining your product scope accurately is essential. The case demonstrates that obtaining a broad license can facilitate market expansion.
- Leverage government support programs: Many regions offer dedicated support for key industries. Identifying these programs can provide guidance and expedite approvals.
- Invest in compliance infrastructure: The company's investment in intelligent workshops and self-inspection labs underscores the need for robust quality control systems. Foreign founders should budget for such facilities to meet Chinese food safety standards.
- Consider heritage and branding: China's traditional food products often have cultural significance. Aligning with local heritage can be a marketing advantage, but it also requires adherence to specific production norms.
Conclusion
The experience of Hangzhou Renyi Food illustrates how foreign founders can navigate China's food production regulations with careful planning and government collaboration. While the process may seem daunting, understanding the local context and leveraging available support can lead to successful market entry.
For foreign founders seeking assistance with company registration and operations in China, ChinaMNC offers expert guidance. Contact us on WhatsApp or WeChat at +86 153 1898 8535 to learn more.
This summary is based on information published by the relevant Chinese government website and is general information, not legal or tax advice.