How difficult is it to apply for the import and export right? 90% of enterprises have fallen into these pitfalls!

"Mr. Zhang has been very distressed recently - his clothing factory received an overseas order but almost missed the opportunity due to the lack of import and export rights." Such stories happen every day. With the advancement of globalization, more and more small and medium-sized enterprises are turning their attention to overseas markets. However, the threshold of import and export rights has deterred many enterprises. This article will provide you with a detailed analysis of the entire process of applying for import and export rights and how to efficiently complete this crucial step through professional agents.

The import and export right refers to the qualification obtained by an enterprise in accordance with the law to engage in import and export trade. With this qualification, an enterprise can:

• Independently carry out international trade business
• Directly sign contracts with foreign merchants
• Enjoy policy preferences such as export tax rebates

Ms. Li's electronic parts factory is a typical case. After successfully applying for the import and export right through an agent in 2019, her enterprise's annual turnover increased by 300%, and a stable overseas customer network was established.

The complete application process usually includes the following key steps:

• Industrial and commercial change: Add the business scope of "import and export"
• Customs registration: Obtain a 10-digit customs code
• Foreign Exchange Administration filing
• Electronic port access
• Inspection and quarantine filing (if applicable)

The entire process involves more than 5 government departments and usually takes 15 - 30 working days on average. Professional consultants from Zhongshitong pointed out that incomplete material preparation is the main reason for the failure of enterprise applications.

Choosing a professional agency can significantly improve the application efficiency:

• Experience advantage: Familiar with the approval key points of various departments
• Efficiency advantage: On average, it shortens the handling time by 40%
• Cost advantage: Avoid additional expenses caused by repeated modifications

Take a food enterprise as an example. It took 2 months to apply independently but still failed. After turning to an agent, the entire process was completed in only 12 days.

When choosing an agency service, it is recommended to focus on the following:

• Whether it has the filing qualification of the Ministry of Commerce
• The authenticity of service cases
• Subsequent value-added services (such as customs declaration, tax rebate, etc.)

Special reminder: Be vigilant against agencies that promise "100% guaranteed pass" or charge significantly lower than the market price. Compliance risks often lurk therein.

Obtaining the import and export right is just the first step. Enterprises also need to establish:

• A professional international trade team
• A foreign exchange risk management mechanism
• A cross-border tax planning plan

As a foreign trade manager with 20 years of experience said: "The import and export right is an admission ticket. The real challenge lies in how to dance well on the international stage."

If you meet any of the following conditions, now is the best time to apply:

• Already have overseas customers making inquiries
• The product has international competitiveness
• Plan to expand overseas markets

Might as well do a simple test: Can you accurately state the composition rules of the HS code? If the answer is no, perhaps a professional agency is the solution you need.