Is Obtaining Import and Export Rights Too Complicated? Keep This Pitfall-Avoiding Guide Handy

“Mr. Li recently discovered a surge in inquiries from overseas clients but missed out on millions in orders due to lacking import and export rights; Mr. Li original design products became popular on Amazon but were stuck in the customs declaration process, unable to be shipped...” Such stories unfold daily. Import and export rights are like an international pass for enterprises, but the "invisible hurdles" in the application process often deter entrepreneurs. This article will break down the entire process in detail, helping you avoid the pitfalls 90% of applicants encounter.

I. Why Do You Need to Obtain Import and Export Rights?

Possessing import and export rights means enterprises can directly participate in international trade without needing a third-party agent:

• Independently sign foreign trade contracts, reducing agency costs by 15-30%
• Apply for export tax rebates, potentially receiving up to a 13% VAT refund
• Open a foreign exchange account, avoiding exchange rate losses from third-party payments

Taking Zhongmaoda's service case as an example, a cross-border e-commerce enterprise with an annual export value of 20 million CNY saved over 800,000 CNY in agency fees annually after direct exporting.

II. The Complete Six-Step Application Process

Step 1: Amend Business License

Go to the Administration for Market Regulation to add "import and export of goods" or "import and export of technology" to your business scope. You need to prepare:

• Amended Articles of Association (signed by all shareholders)
• Application Form for Change Registration
• New license can be collected within 5 working days

Step 2: Foreign Trade Operator FilingSubmit via the unified platform of the Ministry of Commerce's business system:

• Scanned copy of business license duplicate
• Photos of both sides of the legal representative's ID card
• Obtain filing registration form within 3 working days

Step 3: Customs RegistrationLog in to China International Trade "Single Window" to apply online. Key points to note:

• Customs registration code, a 10-digit number, is valid for life
• Simultaneously apply for an E-port IC card (legal representative must apply in person)

Step 4: State Administration of Foreign Exchange FilingSubmit the Application Form for Trade Foreign Exchange Receipts and Payments Enterprise Directory Registration. Key checks include:

• Accuracy of enterprise bank account information
• Reasonableness of estimated annual foreign exchange receipts and payments

Step 5: E-port Network AccessPurchase dedicated customs declaration equipment (approximately 500 CNY/set), including:

• Legal representative card, operator card, card reader
• Must be processed at customs-designated service points

Step 6: Tax Bureau Export Tax Rebate FilingCompletion deadline: Within 15 days of receiving the first export order, you need to submit:

• Export Tax (Exemption) Rebate Filing Form
• Photocopy of bank account opening permit

III. Cost Breakdown and Time Planning

Total cost approximately 2,000-5,000 CNY (excluding agency service fees):

• Business registration amendment: 500-1,000 CNY
• E-port equipment: 480 CNY/set
• Customs declaration special seal engraving: 200 CNY
• Agency service fee: 1,500-3,000 CNY (optional)

The entire process takes approximately 15-25 working days. It is recommended to proceed according to this timeline:

• Week 1: Complete business registration amendment + Ministry of Commerce filing
• Week 2: Simultaneously process customs + foreign exchange registration
• Week 3: E-port equipment debugging

IV. Pitfall Avoidance Guide: Three Common Minefields

Minefield 1: Non-standard Business Scope Description

Error example: "Import and export trade" may be rejected; the correct phrasing should be "import and export of goods" or "import and export of technology".

Minefield 2: Overlooking Customs Annual Review

The annual report of customs declaration unit registration information must be submitted before June 30 each year; overdue submissions will affect customs clearance.

Minefield 3: Delayed Foreign Exchange Receipts and Payments Declaration

Foreign exchange receipts and payments must be declared through the Goods Trade Monitoring System within 5 working days, otherwise, you may be downgraded.

V. Next Steps and Recommendations

Enterprises are advised to choose their processing strategy based on their development stage:

• Startups: Can first complete the initial 3 basic filing steps and then complete the tax rebate filing once actual orders are received
• Established enterprises: It is recommended to complete the full set of procedures and be equipped with a professional foreign trade accountant

Have you encountered any specific issues during the application process? Feel free to leave a comment, and we will select 3 typical questions for Zhongmaoda's expert team to answer for free.