Is the process of obtaining general import-export rights really this simple?

In the vast arena of commerce, import-export business is undoubtedly an attractive field. Many companies aspire to enter this space and expand into broader markets. However, to legally and compliantly engage in general import-export activities, you must first obtain general import-export rights. So, what is the process for applying for these rights? Today, we’ll break it down in detail, helping those in need to clearly embark on this path to the international market.

First, if a company’s business scope does not already include "engaging in the import and export of goods and technology," it will need to apply for a business registration change. This step is foundational—it ensures the company is legally qualified to conduct import-export business. Mr. Zhang once encountered this situation: his company originally focused on domestic business but later wanted to expand overseas, only to realize they needed to adjust their business scope first. Companies must prepare materials such as the original and duplicate copies of their business license, the legal representative’s ID, and submit them to the local Administration for Industry and Commerce. Typically, the change can be completed within a few business days if all materials are in order.

After completing the business registration changes, the next step is foreign trade operator registration. This step is crucial—it marks the official start of the company’s import-export business filing process. The company must log in to the Ministry of Commerce’s unified business system platform and fill out the Foreign Trade Operator Registration Form online. The information provided must be accurate, including the company name, registered address, legal representative details, and more. After submitting the form, additional materials such as a copy of the business license and the legal representative’s ID must be provided. Once reviewed and approved by the commerce department, the Foreign Trade Operator Registration Form will be issued. This process usually takes a few business days to a week.

• After obtaining the Foreign Trade Operator Registration Form, the company can proceed with customs record filing. The company must visit the local customs office to collect and fill out forms such as the Customs Declaration Unit Registration Application.
• At the same time, a series of materials must be prepared, including the original and duplicate copies of the business license, the Foreign Trade Operator Registration Form, the legal representative’s ID, and more. These materials are submitted to customs for review, and customs will conduct a strict examination of the company’s details.
• If approved, customs will issue the Customs Declaration Unit Registration Certificate of the People’s Republic of China, officially completing the company’s customs record filing. This process also typically takes a few business days.

After completing customs record filing, the company must apply for an electronic port card. This card acts as an electronic key for import-export business operations. The company must first make an online appointment through the local electronic port data center website and then visit the designated location with the required materials at the scheduled time. Materials typically include the original business license, organization code certificate (or the business license if the company has a unified certificate), the original Foreign Trade Operator Registration Form, the original Customs Declaration Unit Registration Certificate, and the legal representative’s ID. Once completed, the company can use the electronic port card for import-export-related electronic operations, such as customs declarations and inspections. The entire process usually takes one to two business days.

If the company’s import-export business involves inspection and quarantine, it must also complete inspection and quarantine record filing. The company must submit a filing application to the local entry-exit inspection and quarantine authority, along with materials such as copies of the business license, Foreign Trade Operator Registration Form, Customs Declaration Unit Registration Certificate, and product descriptions. The inspection and quarantine authority will review the company and its products. Once approved, the filing is complete, allowing the company to smoothly conduct business involving inspection and quarantine. The timeline for this process may vary depending on the specifics.

Although the process of obtaining general import-export rights may seem lengthy, it’s not as complicated as it appears—as long as you follow the steps diligently. For those looking to expand into import-export business, now is the time to take action and let your company shine on the international stage, seizing more business opportunities. If you have any questions or experiences to share during the application process, feel free to leave a comment below. Let’s discuss and help more people smoothly embark on their import-export journey.