China is the world’s largest importer of chicken paws. While chicken paws are often treated as a low-value by-product in many Western markets, they are considered a delicacy in China and are deeply embedded in local cuisine. This demand has created a large international trade flow from approved poultry-exporting countries to China.
GACC (General Administration of Customs of China) approval is required for poultry products entering China. Exporting countries must have veterinary agreements with China, and individual processing plants must be registered and approved by Chinese authorities. Without GACC registration, poultry products cannot legally enter the Chinese market.
Among the most important countries with GACC-approved poultry facilities for exports to China are Brazil, Russia, Belarus, Thailand, Chile, and approved facilities from several other exporting nations.
Brazil offers the largest production volumes and competitive pricing. Russia benefits from geographic proximity and shorter logistics routes. Belarus enjoys strong Eurasian trade connections. Thailand is known for premium quality and advanced processing standards. Chile has a strong sanitary reputation and reliable supply chains.
In international poultry trade, chicken paws generally refer to the edible portion of the foot after removal of the outer yellow skin and the claws. Chicken feet often refers to the entire foot with skin and claws attached. Chinese buyers usually prefer processed chicken paws because they are ready for cooking and meet import specifications.
Chicken paws are widely consumed as snacks, restaurant dishes, dim sum products, and packaged ready-to-eat foods. Their unique texture, ability to absorb flavors, and long-standing cultural acceptance have made them one of the most valuable poultry by-products in the Chinese market.
Brazil: scale and pricing. Russia: logistics and growing exports. Belarus: Eurasian market integration. Thailand: premium processing standards. Chile: strong food safety reputation. Different buyers choose suppliers based on price, quality requirements, logistics, and long-term supply security.
China will likely remain the dominant global market for chicken paws. Access to the Chinese market depends on GACC approval, consistent sanitary compliance, and reliable supply capabilities. Exporters from Brazil, Russia, Belarus, Thailand, and Chile continue to play a key role in meeting Chinese demand.
