Handling import and export rights: Is the water too deep? Six steps to guide you through avoiding pitfalls

“Mr. Zhang earned an extra 2 million last year through cross-border e-commerce, and Ms. Li’s factory saved 30% in costs due to export tax rebates…” Behind these real cases lies a crucial action – handling import and export rights. Today, we will use the most straightforward language to break down this pass that allows enterprises to “go global.”

I. Why are import and export rights a necessity?

Having import and export rights means:

• Directly connecting with overseas customers, saving intermediary price differences
• Enjoying policy benefits such as export tax rebates and foreign exchange settlement
• Essential qualification for participating in international bidding

Zhongmaoda experts remind: Operating import and export business without a license can be fined up to 10 times, and compliance is the long-term solution.

II. Six steps for the entire handling process

Step 1: Add business scope to the business license
Go to the Administration for Market Regulation to add the business scope of "import and export of goods" or "import and export of technology." Required documents:

• Amendment to the Articles of Association
• Shareholders’ Resolution
• New Business License Application

Step 2: Foreign Trade Filing
Submit through the business system of the Ministry of Commerce:

• Copy of the legal person business license
• Organization Code Certificate (no longer required separately after the three-in-one reform)
• Customs Registration Form

The Foreign Trade Operator Filing Registration Form can be obtained within 3 working days.

Step 3: Customs Registration and Declaration
Bring the materials to the local customs office for processing:

• Enterprise Credit Information Publicity Report
• Bank Account Opening Permit
• Copy of the legal representative’s ID card

After obtaining the 10-digit customs code, customs declaration business can be carried out.

Step 4: Electronic Port Entry Registration
Apply for an IC card from the China Electronic Port Data Center. This is the "digital key" for cross-border customs clearance and requires on-site fingerprint information of the legal representative.

Step 5: Foreign Exchange Administration Registration
Go to the Foreign Exchange Administration Bureau with the aforementioned materials to open a foreign exchange account. Special attention: A special filing for cross-border e-commerce foreign exchange settlement has been added since 2023.

Step 6: Tax Export Tax Rebate (Exemption) Recognition
Finally, go to the tax bureau to complete the export tax rebate qualification filing. The entire process takes about 15-20 working days.

III. Pitfall Avoidance Guide: Pitfalls encountered by 90% of enterprises

1. Omission of "import and export of technology" in the business scope: Enterprises involved in software and patent exports need to pay special attention.
2. Overdue customs annual review: Annual reports on customs broker registration information must be submitted before June 30th each year.
3. Incorrect foreign exchange declaration: Cross-border collections need to distinguish between "goods trade" and "service trade".

IV. Three suggestions for taking action now

1. Scan the copy of your business license to confirm your existing business scope.
2. Contact your local Bureau of Commerce for the latest list of materials (online pre-approval has been opened in some cities in 2024).
3. It is recommended to use professional institutions such as Zhongmaoda for agency services, which can improve efficiency by more than 50%.

Have you encountered any specific problems during the handling process? You are welcome to leave your questions in the comment section, and we will select 3 typical questions for detailed answers by customs consultants. After all, the window period for cross-border business opportunities always belongs to those who act fastest.