A company engaged an import and export agent to handle business and has doubts about the remittance process, asking how the import and export agent collects remittances and related precautions. The best answer states that the client should first agree on the remittance method with the foreign buyer, such as T/T or L/C. Under the T/T method, the buyer remits directly. L/C requires document submission according to the terms. When collecting remittances, ensure the trade is genuine and compliant, pay attention to reviewing terms, and track payments promptly.
Who is responsible for remittance in agency import business?
Resolved
Our company is planning to engage an agent for import business and is a bit confused about the remittance process. We would like to know whether the client or the agent is responsible for remittance in agency import business. Are there any regulations or influencing factors involved? We hope knowledgeable individuals can provide a detailed explanation so we can plan accordingly and avoid future issues.
Trade Expert Insights Answers
In agency import business, the remittance subject typically depends on the agency model. There are two common models. One is where the agent signs contracts and makes payments in their own name. In this case, the agent, acting as the operating entity, is responsible for handling outward remittance procedures. After the agent remits the payment, the client then pays the agent the corresponding amount according to the agency agreement. Another model is where the agent signs contracts in the client's name, in which case the client can remit funds directly. However, regardless of the model, relevant foreign exchange administration regulations must be followed. For example, it is necessary to ensure that the source of remittance funds is legal and compliant, and that genuine and valid trade documents are provided. In practice, the remittance subject should also be determined based on the parties' willingness to cooperate, financial arrangements, and trade convenience.
In summary, clarifying the remittance subject is crucial for the smooth operation of agency import business. It is recommended that both parties clearly define this in the agency agreement in advance.
Generally, if the agent has strong capabilities and convenient cash flow, they may handle the remittance. This can simplify the process because the agent is familiar with remittance operations and can improve efficiency. However, the client must pay attention to fund supervision to ensure that the agent does not misappropriate funds.
If the client has a foreign currency account and has strict requirements for controlling fund flows, they tend to remit funds themselves. This allows the client to directly control the funds, but they need to be familiar with the remittance process and prepare all kinds of trade documents to avoid errors.
Sometimes it also depends on the contract agreement. Both parties discuss and decide on the remittance subject when signing the agency import contract. Executing according to the contract can reduce subsequent disputes, so the drafting of contract clauses is very important.
If the imported goods involve special regulatory policies, it may affect the choice of remittance subject. For example, some goods have import qualification restrictions, and if the agent is more familiar with the relevant policies, they may handle the remittance.
From a tax perspective, if the agent remits, the relevant invoices for import VAT and other taxes may be issued to the agent, and the client may obtain them through certain procedures. Therefore, the choice of remittance subject will also affect tax treatment.
When the client has insufficient funds, they may rely on the agent for remittance. After the agent remits, the client repays gradually. However, in this situation, the client will bear certain capital costs.
If the agent has a close relationship with overseas suppliers and has better credit lines, having the agent remit funds may secure more favorable transaction terms, which can be beneficial for business development.
If the client is in a hurry to receive the goods, remitting funds themselves can speed up the process and avoid delays caused by the agent's procedures. However, this is conditional on the client's ability to handle remittance procedures quickly.