Import and export agency companies are mainly subject to VAT, corporate income tax, surtaxes, etc.
For VAT, agency services fall under modern services. The general taxpayer rate is 6%, while the small-scale taxpayer rate is 3% (currently, there may be policy-based preferential rates). The tax base is the agency service revenue. If the company is involved in the sale of import and export goods, the general taxpayer rate for goods is mostly 13%, etc., and small-scale taxpayers may also enjoy preferential rates. The tax base is the sales revenue of the goods.
The corporate income tax rate is typically 25%, with preferential rates for small and micro-profit enterprises. The tax base is the taxable income. Surtaxes are calculated based on the actual VAT and consumption tax paid. For example, urban maintenance and construction tax has a rate of 7% in urban areas, 5% in counties and towns, and 1% in other areas. The education surcharge rate is 3%, and the local education surcharge rate is 2%. For tax filing, it’s important to file truthfully within the specified deadlines, prepare relevant documents such as contracts and invoices, and stay updated on tax policy changes to adjust filings accordingly.
Professional consultant answers
William YangYears of service：5Customer Rating：5.0
International logistics consultantConsult
Import and export agency companies are mainly subject to VAT, corporate income tax, surtaxes, etc.
For VAT, agency services fall under modern services. The general taxpayer rate is 6%, while the small-scale taxpayer rate is 3% (currently, there may be policy-based preferential rates). The tax base is the agency service revenue. If the company is involved in the sale of import and export goods, the general taxpayer rate for goods is mostly 13%, etc., and small-scale taxpayers may also enjoy preferential rates. The tax base is the sales revenue of the goods.
The corporate income tax rate is typically 25%, with preferential rates for small and micro-profit enterprises. The tax base is the taxable income. Surtaxes are calculated based on the actual VAT and consumption tax paid. For example, urban maintenance and construction tax has a rate of 7% in urban areas, 5% in counties and towns, and 1% in other areas. The education surcharge rate is 3%, and the local education surcharge rate is 2%. For tax filing, it’s important to file truthfully within the specified deadlines, prepare relevant documents such as contracts and invoices, and stay updated on tax policy changes to adjust filings accordingly.
Joseph ZhouYears of service：10Customer Rating：5.0
Senior foreign trade managerConsult
Import and export agency companies may also be subject to stamp duty, such as on signed agency contracts, usually calculated as a percentage of the contract amount. Remember to pay stamp duty promptly to avoid late fees.
Michelle ChenYears of service：3Customer Rating：5.0
Business coordination consultantConsult
For import procedures, if the company acts as an agent for clients importing goods, the customs duty is borne by the clients, but the company must assist with the relevant formalities. The customs duty rate is determined based on the type of goods, etc., and the tax base is the dutiable value.
Sarah ZhangYears of service：8Customer Rating：5.0
Document expertConsult
For export agency business involving export tax rebates, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with the rebate process and policies to help clients secure the rebates they are entitled to. This is crucial for enhancing the company’s competitiveness.
Robert ChenYears of service：6Customer Rating：5.0
Customer service consultantConsult
Be sure to distinguish between collections and payments on behalf of clients and agency revenue. Collections and payments are not taxable income and should not be mistakenly included in the tax base. Additionally, engage in tax planning to reasonably reduce tax liabilities.
Jennifer WangYears of service：4Customer Rating：5.0
Market development consultantConsult
When filing taxes, ensure proficiency in operating the electronic tax system and accurately fill out the relevant forms to avoid errors in tax filings.
James LiuYears of service：10Customer Rating：5.0
Foreign trade tax refund consultantConsult
Pay attention to notifications and training sessions from local tax authorities to stay informed about the latest tax policies and filing requirements, which can greatly assist the company’s tax compliance.
Andrew HuangYears of service：7Customer Rating：5.0
Supply chain optimization expertConsult
Keep all tax-related documents and records properly stored for tax inspections. These materials can prove the company’s tax compliance.
Elizabeth LiYears of service：3Customer Rating：5.0
Compliance and risk managerConsult
If the company qualifies for certain tax incentives, such as those for small and micro-profit enterprises, be sure to apply for them promptly to save on taxes.