5 Fatal Mistakes in Handling Import and Export Rights

Mr. Jia has been troubled recently. His factory's high-quality products have already gained a good reputation in the domestic market, but whenever he receives overseas orders, he needs to export through a third-party agency, which not only significantly compresses profits but also involves an exceptionally cumbersome process. Business owners like Mr. Jia are not few – they are eager to explore international markets but are completely clueless about how to obtain import and export rights.

Today, we will systematically analyze the complete path for enterprises to obtain import and export rights, helping you open the door to the global market.

Why Do Enterprises Need Import and Export Rights?

Directly controlling trade initiative is the core value for enterprises applying for import and export rights. Taking Zhongmaoda as an example, after obtaining the qualification, the profit margin per order increased by an average of 18%, while also enjoying policy benefits such as export tax rebates. More importantly, having independent import and export rights means:

• No longer constrained by agency company channel restrictions
• Ability to establish direct cooperative relationships with overseas clients
• Flexible arrangement of logistics and settlement methods

Prerequisites Before Application

Mr. Jia e-commerce company had its application rejected last year because crucial documents were omitted. To avoid similar situations, enterprises need to meet the following basic conditions:

• Business license's scope of business includes "import and export" or "import and export of goods and technologies"
• Completed customs registration and record-keeping
• Opened a foreign currency settlement account
• Equipped with certified customs declarants (can be outsourced)

Special reminder: Special industries such as food and medical devices also need to obtain corresponding export qualification certifications.

Five Steps to Master Import and Export Rights Application

Step One: Business Registration Scope Change
If the business license does not include import and export operations, a change in business scope must first be processed, typically completed within 3-5 working days.

Step Two: Customs Registration
Submit through the "China International Trade Single Window":

• Customs Declaration Unit Registration Information Form
• Copy of Business License (duplicate)
• Copy of Legal Representative's ID Card

Step Three: Foreign Exchange Administration Registration
Obtain qualification for the List of Enterprises for Goods Trade Foreign Exchange Receipts and Payments. This is a crucial document for receiving and paying foreign exchange.

Step Four: E-Port Network Access
Apply for an IC card and digital certificate, used for subsequent customs declarations, tax refunds, and other operations.

Step Five: Tax Bureau Registration
Complete the registration for export tax refund (exemption) qualification, to enjoy a 13% VAT refund in the future.

Guide to Avoiding Common Pitfalls

• Misconception One: "Registered capital must be over 5 million" – in reality, registered capital restrictions have been abolished
• Misconception Two: "Physical import and export records are required" – new companies can also apply
• Practical Advice: For the first application, try to entrust a professional agency. The Zhongmaoda case shows that professional services can increase the success rate by 40%

How to Rapidly Commence Business After Obtaining Qualifications?

It is recommended to follow three steps:
1. Participate in international exhibitions such as the Canton Fair to accumulate clients

2. Establish a storefront on platforms like Alibaba International
3. Establish long-term cooperation with freight forwarding companies

Import and export rights are not the end, but the starting point for global operations. Is your enterprise ready to embrace a broader market? Feel free to share your international journey in the comments section or inquire about specific operational details.