Is it really that easy to handle the Import and Export Business License? 90% of bosses have wasted their money!

Recently, a Mr. Zhang consulted: "Our own factory wants to expand into overseas markets, but I heard that we need to handle the Import and Export Business License. Is the process complicated?" Actually, as long as you master the key steps, you can get it done in 2 months! Today, we will use a step-by-step tutorial like a nanny to break down this "customs clearance permit" that troubles many enterprises.

According to the data of the General Administration of Customs, in 2023, more than 280,000 new foreign trade enterprises were added. Having the Import and Export License means:

• You can declare customs independently without entrusting an agent, saving more than 3,000 yuan per single business.
• You can directly apply for export tax rebates, increasing the profit margin by 5% - 13%.
• It is a necessary qualification for participating in international tenders.

1. Business License Amendment: The business scope should include "Import and Export of Goods" or "Import and Export of Technology".

2. Bank Upgrade: Open a foreign currency account (it is recommended to choose a bank with international settlement services).

3. Staffing: At least one certified customs declarer (can be hired externally).

4. Qualification Pre-approval: Log in to the "Single Window for International Trade" to query the credit status of the enterprise.

• Step 1: Record-filing with the Bureau of Commerce (3 working days)
  

  Submit the Record-filing Form for Foreign Trade Operators, and the record-filing voucher can be printed the next day after online application.

• Step 2: Customs Registration (5 working days)
  

  Bring the record-filing form and the original copy of the business license to the local customs to obtain a 10-digit customs code.

• Step 3: Electronic Port Card (7 working days)
  

  Handle the legal person card and the operator card (Note: The legal representative needs to be present in person to record fingerprints).

• Step 4: Registration with the Foreign Exchange Administration (immediate)
  

  Submit the Registration Application Form for the List of Import and Export Enterprises through the bank end.

• Step 5: Record-filing with the Tax Bureau (1 working day)
  

  Complete the identification of the eligibility for export tax rebate (exemption).

• Step 6: Record-filing for Inspection and Quarantine (required for special commodities)
  

  Commodities such as food and cosmetics need to apply for CIQ codes additionally.

1. Trap of Inconsistent Addresses: The registered address with the customs must be exactly the same as that on the business license (even the punctuation marks cannot be wrong).

2. Risk of Late Annual Report: The customs annual report needs to be completed before June 30th every year, otherwise the enterprise will be downgraded to a discredited enterprise.

3. Limitations of Bookkeeping Agency: Some bookkeeping agencies are not familiar with foreign exchange declarations. It is recommended to choose professional foreign trade financial and tax services.

In 2024, many places have launched the policy of "First Foreign Trade Order Incentives", such as:

• If the first export amount in a year exceeds 500,000 yuan, you can apply for a subsidy of 10,000 yuan.
• Cross-border e-commerce enterprises can enjoy additional logistics cost reductions.