Is it a pipe dream for individual businesses to do foreign trade?

"Mr. Zhang's small workshop earned an extra 200,000 yuan last year by exporting handmade leather goods!"—You might not know that with policy relaxation, the threshold for import and export rights for individual businesses has significantly lowered. This article will break down the entire process from application to practice, revealing the "going global" code for small merchants.

Traditionally, foreign trade was seen as exclusive to enterprises, but the reality is changing:

• Cost savings: No need for agents, saving 5-15% commission per order
• Profit control: Directly dealing with overseas clients increases profit margins by over 30%
• Policy benefits: Special tax incentives for new models like cross-border e-commerce

Step 1: Business scope expansion

Bring your ID and business license to the local administration bureau to add "import and export of goods" or "import and export of technology" to your business scope, usually completed in 1-3 working days.

Step 2: Customs registration

Submit via the "Single Window for International Trade":

• Customs declaration unit registration form
• Scanned copy of business license
• Copy of operator's ID

Individual businesses needing foreign currency accounts must additionally submit the Foreign Trade Operator Registration Form to the local foreign exchange bureau.

1. Product misjudgment: Some goods require special qualifications (e.g., FDA certification for food)

2. Tax traps: Export tax rebates require separate applications and cannot be mixed with domestic sales taxes

3. Logistics risks: For small batches, cross-border e-commerce logistics lines are recommended

• Cross-border e-commerce: Test the waters via platforms like Amazon, with first orders controllable under 5,000 yuan
• Exhibition consignment: Partner with supply chain companies like Zhongshitong to participate in overseas exhibitions
• Custom orders: Take personalized orders on handmade platforms like Etsy

While your neighbor Lao Wang complains about market saturation, some have already opened new markets through import and export rights for individual businesses. Leave your industry in the comments for tailored global expansion advice!