Does a company without the right to import and export turn away customers?

"Mr. Zhang has been very distressed recently. The orders of his clothing factory have surged, and overseas customers came to him on their own initiative. However, due to the lack of the right to import and export, he could only watch the opportunities slip away..." Such scenes are not uncommon. With the deepening of globalization, more and more companies need to "go global" or "bring in". And the right to import and export is the golden key. This article will systematically analyze the handling process to help you avoid detours.

Having the right to import and export means that a company can directly participate in international trade without going through third - party agents. Take Ms. Li's electronic parts company as an example. After self - declaration of customs, the profit margin increased by 18%, and the logistics cycle can be arranged flexibly. The main advantages include:

• Reduce transaction costs (save agency fees)
• Enhance customer trust (signing directly is more professional)
• Flexibly manage foreign exchange accounts
• Enjoy the export tax rebate policy

The foreign trade consulting team of Zhongshitong reminds that before the formal application, the following must be completed:

• Business license modification: The business scope must include "goods import and export" or "technology import and export"
• Bank account opening: Open a foreign currency account (it is recommended to choose a bank with international settlement business)
• Qualification confirmation: Some special commodities require additional licenses (for example, food requires a hygiene license)

Step 1: Record - filing with the business bureau
Log in to the local business bureau website and submit the Record - filing Form for Foreign Trade Operators. The record - filing registration form can be obtained within 3 working days.

Step 2: Customs registration
Bring materials such as the business license copy and the legal representative's ID card to the local customs to handle the registration of the customs declaration unit and obtain a 10 - digit customs code.

Step 3: Electronic port card
Apply for IC cards (legal person card, operator card) at the China Electronic port data center. This is the core tool for subsequent customs clearance.

Step 4: Record - filing with the State Administration of Foreign Exchange
Open permissions in the Goods Trade Foreign Exchange Monitoring System of the State Administration of Foreign Exchange and complete the enterprise directory registration.

Step 5: Tax rebate identification by the tax bureau
Go to the competent tax authority to handle the export tax refund (exemption) record - filing. In the future, a 13% VAT refund can be enjoyed.

The case database of Zhongshitong shows that 90% of the problems are concentrated in:

• The business scope was not updated in a timely manner (industrial and commercial modification is required first)
• Omission of the annual customs review (it needs to be reported before June 30th every year)
• The electronic port card was not extended (the validity period is usually 2 years)

It is recommended that companies establish a certificate management ledger and set up an expiration reminder function.

Obtaining the right to import and export is like getting an "international driver's license". Although the process is slightly complicated, the commercial value it brings is immeasurable. Why not start preparing materials today, or consult the professional consultants of Zhongshitong to obtain a customized solution. Have you ever encountered difficulties in obtaining the right to import and export? Welcome to share your experience in the comment section!