China's ports of entry

Ports of entry in China, which mostly perform the functions of checkpoints, were initially established for the development of the economy and trade. Today, these ports serve not only as commercial ports but also provide convenient services in politics, diplomacy, science and technology, culture and tourism, and immigration

Ceke Port in Ejine Banner, Inner Mongolia autonomous region, borders Mongolia. It is the third largest border port in the region. [Photo/VCG]

Ports in China are categorized into three types by the Ministry of Commerce, the General Administration of Quality Supervision, Inspection and Quarantine of China and the General Administration of Customs.

The grand guomen, or national gate, borders Russia in Manzhouli, Inner Mongolia. Raw materials are usually transported from Russia to China through this gate. [Photo/VCG]

First-level port of entry. First-level ports are approved by the State Council. Chinese or overseas personnel, cargo items and vehicles are permitted to directly enter and leave through the port.

Former second-level port of entry. This kind of port is approved by provincial or regional governments. Personnel from China and bordering countries, cargo items or vehicles are permitted to enter and exit through these ports.

New second-level port of entry. These ports are approved by the State Council for Chinese personnel, cargoes, items or vehicles only.