Hairy crab (egg crab) is a type of crab with thick fur on its claws, living in streams and rivers in fresh and brackish water, considered a specialty of many northern mountainous provinces. Before exporting hairy crabs to China, businesses must check whether this species is on the list of seafood allowed to be imported from Vietnam, then prepare to register the facility, deed and plan to transport live goods.
What is hairy crab (cara)?
Hairy crabs, also known as eggplants, are easily recognizable thanks to their claws covered with dark brown hair. They often live in streams, rivers, rocky beaches and have the habit of moving seasonally. Hairy crab meat and crab meat are fatty and fragrant, so they are used in many specialty dishes.
There are many species of crabs with hairy claws in Asia, so local names are not enough to identify the species. When preparing export documents, businesses need to determine the exact scientific name through a specialized agency instead of relying on the trade name.
Characteristics and criteria for selecting hairy crabs for export
- The crab is alive and healthy, has full claws and legs, and good reflexes.
- The apricot is firm, heavy, and does not crumple or peel.
- Uniform sizes as agreed with the buyer.
- There is clear information about the origin of exploitation or keeping for retrieval when needed.
Preserve live hairy crabs when transporting
Hairy crabs are mainly delivered alive, so the preservation stage determines the loss rate. A common way is to tie or secure the crabs to limit biting, arrange them in airy boxes or baskets, keep them moist with clean materials, and keep the temperature cool to reduce crab activity.
| Stitch | Things to do | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Collection | Choose strong crabs, avoid weak ones with broken claws | Do not leave crabs exposed to the sun for long periods of time |
| Save | Keep in a clean, well-ventilated tank or area | Control water source and density |
| Pack | Secure the crabs, arrange them in boxes with ventilation holes, and keep them moist | Do not let crabs come into direct contact with rocks |
| Transport | Shorten time, keep cool stable | Prepare documents so you don't have to wait at the border gate |
What should you pay attention to when exporting hairy crabs to China?
Check whether the species is allowed to be imported or not
This is the first step to take. Not all Vietnamese aquatic species have been approved for import by China. Businesses need to check whether hairy crab (according to the correct scientific name) is on the list allowed to be imported from Vietnam to China, through competent authorities and the official website of China Customs. If the species is not on the list, an official contract should not be signed.
Register the facility under Order 280
Order 280 of China Customs (GACC) on registration of foreign food manufacturing enterprises takes effect from June 1, 2026, replacing Order 248; The registration code under Order 248 is still valid and can still be used. Seafood belongs to the group that must be introduced by the Vietnamese competent authority (NAFIQPM). Chinese customs does not charge registration fees, businesses should only use the official website customs.gov.cn or singlewindow.cn.
The deed and information match
Each batch needs a certificate issued by a Vietnamese authority, the species name, facility and volume must match the label, invoice and declaration.
Documents need to be prepared
- The results determine the scientific name of the species.
- Records of collection, storage, packaging facilities and registration codes (if species are permitted).
- Contracts, commercial invoices, packing slips, bills of lading.
- Certificate as required by the importing country, certificate of origin when needed.
What stages does Andwind support?
Andwind supports businesses in reviewing species' permit status, checking facility registration conditions, preparing documents to work with competent authorities, declaring customs, quarantine and arranging appropriate transportation for live goods.
Frequently asked questions
Has hairy crab been allowed to be officially exported to China?
Enterprises need to check with the competent authority according to the correct scientific name of the species before each export plan. Lists are subject to change, so do not rely on word of mouth.
Can hairy crabs and field crabs share the same profile?
Are not. Each species has its own scientific name and permitting status, so records, certificates and labels must accurately state each species.
Why are live hairy crabs easily lost?
Hairy crabs are sensitive to temperature and humidity, and often bite each other when stacked thickly. Fixing crabs, keeping them cool and shortening transportation time helps reduce loss.
Conclude
Hairy crab is a potential specialty, but the decisive step is to confirm the species is allowed to be imported before investing in an order. After that, facility registration, deed and living preservation stage need to be prepared synchronously.
Need advice on procedures, codes or shipping? Contact Andwind – Zalo 0967948685 · andwind.vn