How to calculate tax refund when using export agency services?
Our company plans to use export agency services. Previously, we handled export tax refunds ourselves and are unclear about the calculation method when using an agency. We'd like to know how the refund amount is calculated when using an agency? Is the calculation process complicated? Are there significant differences from self-export tax refund calculation? Detailed explanation would be appreciated.












Professional consultant answers
William YangYears of service:5Customer Rating:5.0
International logistics consultantConsult
The basic formula for tax refund calculation when using export agency services is: refundable amount = FOB price of exported goods × RMB exchange rate × export tax refund rate. First, clarify the FOB price, which is the price when goods are delivered on board. The RMB exchange rate can refer to the rate published by the People's Bank of China. The refund rate varies by product and can be checked on the State Taxation Administration website.
For example, if your company exports goods with FOB price of $100,000, RMB exchange rate at 6.5, and refund rate of 13%, then refundable amount = 100000×6.5×13% = 84,500 RMB.
The calculation method is essentially same whether using agency or self-export. The main difference lies in data acquisition and procedures, as agencies are more familiar with processes and can avoid mistakes caused by unfamiliarity.
Sarah ZhangYears of service:8Customer Rating:5.0
Document expertConsult
Generally, it's calculated based on the amount specified on the VAT special invoice for purchased goods and the refund rate. As long as accurate invoice information is provided to the agency, they can calculate the refund amount.
Emily LiuYears of service:10Customer Rating:5.0
Settlement and payment expertConsult
The calculation isn't difficult. The key is to accurately provide goods-related information to the agency, such as amounts on customs declarations. The agency will calculate according to the prescribed formula.
Jennifer WangYears of service:4Customer Rating:5.0
Market development consultantConsult
Essentially, it depends on the tax basis and corresponding refund rate for exported goods. The tax basis is usually invoice amount or FOB price (choose one), then multiply by refund rate to get refund amount.
Elizabeth LiYears of service:3Customer Rating:5.0
Compliance and risk managerConsult
Don't overlook details during calculation, like special regulations for certain products. Mistakes could affect refund amount, which agencies usually pay attention to.
Robert ChenYears of service:6Customer Rating:5.0
Customer service consultantConsult
For processed goods, the calculation differs slightly, needing to include costs of raw materials and processing fees.
Amanda YangYears of service:3Customer Rating:5.0
Cost control consultantConsult
When using agencies, they typically review documents first and only calculate after verification, strictly following regulations with minimal errors.
Michelle ChenYears of service:3Customer Rating:5.0
Business coordination consultantConsult
Stay updated on policy changes as refund rates may adjust. Agencies usually have better information channels in this regard.
Joseph ZhouYears of service:10Customer Rating:5.0
Senior foreign trade managerConsult
Whether self-export or using agency, tax refund calculations follow national formulas, with agencies being more proficient and efficient in operations.