Import and Export Rights Processing Too Complex? One Wrong Step in These 6 Stages Means Complete Failure

Mr. Qi registered a trading company last year. After much effort, he received an overseas order but almost lost a million due to not having import and export rights; Mr. Qi factory products are sold in 20 countries, but she still shudders recalling the experience of repeatedly submitting supplementary materials when applying for the permit—Import and export rights are like the "customs clearance documents" for the foreign trade industry; without them, progress is impossible, yet the application process gives countless entrepreneurs a headache.

I. Why Must Import and Export Rights Be Obtained?

Simply put, enterprises without import and export rights are like travelers without passports:

• Cannot declare customs independently, requiring an agency fee for each shipment (approximately 1%-3% of the goods value)
• Cannot apply for export tax rebates, losing about 13% of profits
• Direct payments from foreign customers may be intercepted by banks

Zhongmaoda foreign trade experts remind: For enterprises with **an annual export volume exceeding 500,000 RMB**, handling it independently is more cost-effective than finding an agent.

II. Six-Step Breakdown of the Entire Processing Flow

Stage 1: Business License Amendment (3-5 working days)

First, go to the Administration for Market Regulation to add "import and export of goods" or "import and export of technology" to the business scope. Required documents:

• Amended Articles of Association
• Shareholder Resolution
• Original and duplicate copies of the new business license

• Foreign Trade Operator Registration Form
• Photocopy of legal representative's ID card
• Note: The English company name must be consistent with the customs registration

• Confirm the Customs Registration Code (10 digits) in advance
• Qualifications for consignees and consignors of import and export goods

III. Three Pitfalls That 90% of People Have Fallen Into

Pitfall 1: Registration in the State Administration of Foreign Exchange (SAFE) Directory

Many enterprises forget to register in the SAFE directory before opening a foreign exchange account at the bank, resulting in the first foreign currency remittance being unable to be credited.

Pitfall 2: Electronic Port Card Renewal Delay

The IC card and operator card require annual review. Exceeding the deadline will affect customs declaration. It is recommended to set up mobile reminders.

Pitfall 3: Export Tax Rebate Qualification Application

After completing the first five steps, **an independent application must be submitted to the tax bureau** to enjoy tax rebates. Required documents:

• Export Tax Rebate (Exemption) Registration Form
• Bank Account Opening Permit

IV. Acting Now Can Save You 2000 Yuan

Since 2023, many regions have implemented "integrated online services." The process that originally required visits to 6 departments can now be completed by submitting materials online:

• Time reduced from 45 days to 15 days
• Costs reduced from 3000+ RMB to approximately 500 RMB

Why not open your computer now and complete these three actions:

1. Check if your business license includes import and export items
2. Log in to the Ministry of Commerce website to try filling out the registration form
3. Bookmark the local customs service guide page