Is the process of obtaining import-export qualifications too complicated? 3 Pitfall Avoidance Guides

"My products could sell for a high price abroad, so why can't I ship them out?" This was the question Mr. Zhang posed to us last month at a café. Like many entrepreneurs, he discovered the blue ocean of cross-border e-commerce but was blocked by the lack of import-export qualifications. Today, we’ll lift the veil—obtaining import-export qualifications isn’t as complicated as you might think, but it does require systematic planning.

Ms. Li’s ceramic studio only realized the importance when they received an order from a French buyer last year—without the qualifications, they couldn’t even send samples. Import-export qualifications are not just a legal requirement but also a passport to internationalization:

• Gain customs clearance privileges
• Benefit from export tax rebate policies
• Build trust with overseas clients

Step 1: Expand business license scope
Add "import and export of goods" or "import and export of technology" to your business scope—this is the foundation. We recommend selecting the full category of "import-export business" to avoid repeated modifications later.

Step 2: Foreign trade operator registration
Submit your application through the Ministry of Commerce’s unified platform. You’ll receive the registration form within 3 working days. Note: Your company’s English name and address must match all subsequent documents exactly.

Step 3: Customs registration
Complete registration via China’s International Trade "Single Window" to obtain a 10-digit customs code. A common misconception: many think they need to visit customs in person, but the entire process can be done online.

Step 4: Apply for an electronic port card
This U-like device will be your core tool for customs declarations. We recommend applying for both operator and legal representative cards for easier business authorization.

• A separate foreign exchange bank account is required
• Export tax rebate (exemption) eligibility requires additional registration
• Certain goods need special permits (e.g., food, medical devices)

Based on our experience serving 300+ companies, we advise:

• Hiring a professional agent can save 40% of your time
• Import-export rights require annual maintenance (reports, document updates)
• Cross-border e-commerce qualifications differ from traditional trade

After reading this guide, do you still think import-export qualifications are out of reach? In fact, from submitting the first document to obtaining the qualifications, the fastest turnaround is just 15 working days. Check your business license scope now or visit the Ministry of Commerce website for the latest policies. What specific challenges are you facing on your internationalization journey? Share your thoughts in the comments.