Is Obtaining Import and Export Rights Too Complicated? Here’s a Guide to Avoid Pitfalls

Mr. Wen has been very troubled recently. His company's smart home devices have been receiving inquiries from overseas, but due to a lack of import and export qualifications, he can only watch orders slip away. In fact, many business owners like Mr. Wen are in a similar situation. According to customs data, in 2023, 37% of small and medium-sized enterprises delayed their cross-border business operations due to insufficient understanding of the process. Today, we will use a comprehensive guide to break down this "entry permit" for businesses to enter the international market.

Why is it Necessary to Obtain Import and Export Rights?

Import and export operating rights are equivalent to a company's international trade identity card. Without it, companies can only export through third-party agents, not only incurring commission fees of 3-8% but also losing key benefits such as customs declaration and tax rebates, and independent price negotiation. After Mr. Wen ceramic factory obtained the qualifications last year, it saved 460,000 yuan in costs solely from export tax rebates.

• Direct participation in international bidding
• Enjoy 13% VAT export tax rebates
• Independent control over foreign exchange settlement cycles

Five-Step Comprehensive Process Explained

Step 1: Business Scope Expansion (3-5 working days)
Add "import and export of goods" or "import and export of technology" to the business scope of the business license. It is recommended to add the option of "agency for import and export" simultaneously to leave ample room for future business. Zhongmaoda's case data shows that companies that plan their business scope in advance reduce the frequency of subsequent changes by 82%.

Step 2: Foreign Trade Registration (1 day online)
Submit through the unified business system platform of the Ministry of Commerce:

• Scanned copy of business license
• Front and back of legal representative's ID card
• Company name/address in English

Remember to download and print the Foreign Trade Operator Registration Form; this number will be used throughout all subsequent processes.

Step 3: Customs Registration (On-the-spot processing)
Bring the registration form to the local customs to apply for the Customs Registration Certificate for Declarants. Most customs now support "multi-certificate integration," simplifying the application materials from 11 items to 3. Special attention: Importers and exporters of goods and customs brokers must choose different registration types.

Step 4: Foreign Exchange Administration Directory Registration (2 working days)
This step is often overlooked but is crucial for payment and receipt of foreign exchange. You need to prepare:

• Photocopies of the complete set of import and export rights documents
• Bank account opening permit
• Application form for directory registration, personally signed by the legal representative

Step 5: Application for Electronic Port Card (5-7 working days)
The China Electronic Port Data Center will issue a legal representative card and an operator card for the company. This is the core tool for future paperless customs declaration. It is recommended to have at least 2 operator cards to prevent loss, as the re-issuance period can be as long as 15 days.

Pitfall Avoidance Guide: Pitfalls Encountered by 90% of Companies

1. Customs Registration Address Trap: In a certain free trade zone, companies have encountered customs clearance obstacles due to being registered at virtual addresses. The actual office address must be consistent with the business license.
2. Foreign Exchange Account Misconception: Some banks may promote "foreign exchange margin accounts," but a regular settlement account is sufficient for foreign exchange payment and receipt needs.
3. Annual Inspection Blind Spot: Customs annual reports must be completed before June 30th each year; otherwise, the company will be placed on the "dishonest enterprise" list.

The Best Time to Act Now

With the deepening of the RCEP agreement, the average tariff for ASEAN countries has fallen to 0.8%. A certain electromechanical company, by utilizing its newly obtained qualifications, increased its market share in Vietnam to 17% in just three months. Is your international business blueprint still stuck in PowerPoint slides? Save this guide immediately, and leave your application progress in the comments section. We will randomly select three readers to provide free qualification review services.