Can individual businesses engage in foreign trade? The truth about the huge profits of the import and export operation right

Mr. Zhang recently noticed that a sign saying "International Logistics Center" suddenly appeared on the warehouse next to his community; Ms. Li's baking studio actually started receiving overseas orders. Behind all this lies a key term: General trade import and export operation right. Can ordinary people seize this opportunity of "globalization at their doorstep"? Today, let's unveil its mystery.

Many people think that one must establish a foreign trade company to engage in foreign trade. In fact, as long as one obtains the general trade import and export operation right, individual businesses can directly participate in international trade. This qualification is like a key that can open multiple channels such as customs, foreign exchange, and taxation:

• Independent customs declaration right: No longer rely on agent companies, saving 3%-5% of costs per order
• Foreign exchange settlement account: Directly receive foreign exchange payments such as US dollars and euros
• Tax refund qualification: Eligible for a 9%-13% export tax refund under certain conditions

The practical guide summarized by the professional team of Zhongshitong:

• Step 1: Prepare basic qualifications: The business license should include the business scope of "goods import and export", and there is no strict requirement for the registered capital
• Step 2: Complete the "three-piece set" for customs clearance record: Customs record (3 working days) + Electronic port card (1 week) + Registration with the State Administration of Foreign Exchange (5 working days)
• Step 3: Activate taxation: Record for export tax rebate (exemption), completing the last piece of the puzzle

Ms. Li's case is a warning: After applying for the qualification last year, due to overlooking Customs AEO certification, the first batch of her goods was detained in the destination country for 2 weeks. Other hidden requirements include:

• ISO system certification (mandatory in some countries)
• Product inspection reports (such as EU CE, US FDA, etc.)
• Compliant management of foreign exchange receipts and payments (to avoid triggering bank risk control)

Cross - border e - commerce platforms are not the only option. Through general trade exports, small and micro enterprises can:

• Receive overseas B - end orders (with a profit margin 20%-30% higher than retail)
• Participate in overseas exhibitions (apply for government subsidies with the import and export right)
• Carry out processing trade (duty - free and VAT - free for processing with supplied materials)

When a community fruit store can directly import Southeast Asian durians, and when the works of handicraftsmen can be directly mailed to European buyers, the boundaries of foreign trade are disappearing. You might as well check your business license. Perhaps you are only one record away from becoming an "international merchant". Welcome to share in the comment section: What unexpected "mini - multinational enterprises" are there around you?