Is the right to import and export an IQ tax? Uncover the secrets of SMEs' comebacks

Mr. Zhang was still worried about domestic orders last year, but this year he brought his company back to life thanks to a batch of export orders; Ms. Li's cross-border e-commerce team has only three people, but they earn millions annually by importing niche products. Import and export trade is no longer the exclusive privilege of giants. As long as small and medium-sized enterprises master the key steps, they can also get a share of the pie. This article will break down the complete process of a company handling imports and exports, leading you to avoid those "traps that newbies are bound to step on".

When competitors are still engaged in price, companies with the right to import and export have already opened up a new world:

• Directly connect with overseas customers, increasing the profit margin by 30% - 50%
• Enjoy the export tax rebate policy, with subsidies in some industries reaching as high as 13%
• Avoid the problem of long domestic payment cycles, and overseas letters of credit are safer

Step 1: Adding Items to the Business License
Add "Import and Export of Goods" or "Import and Export of Technology" to the business scope. You need to prepare:

• The original ID card of the legal person
• The amendment to the articles of association
• The official seal and the materials signed by shareholders

Step 2: Customs Record-filing Registration
Submit online through the "Single Window for International Trade":

• The customs registration form
• A copy of the business license
• The bank account opening permit

Step 3: Record-filing with the Foreign Exchange Administration
When opening a foreign exchange account, special attention should be paid to:

• Confirm in advance the cross-border settlement services of the cooperative bank
• Submit contracts/invoices and other vouchers for the first receipt and payment of foreign exchange
• Submit the import and export receipt and payment of foreign exchange reports every quarter

Obtaining the qualifications is just the beginning. These practical details determine success or failure:

• Incorrect declaration of the HS code of goods may lead to high fines (it is recommended to purchase a professional database)
• Export tax rebates need to be applied for separately, and a two-month period should be reserved for the first application
• Cross-border e-commerce needs to additionally handle ICP licenses and payment licenses

If you have read this far, you might as well take immediate action:

• Scan the business license and conduct a self-test in 5 minutes to see if you meet the basic conditions
• Bookmark the official website of the "Single Window for International Trade" (it is recommended to operate on the PC side)
• Ask questions in the comment area (for example: "What are the special requirements for food exports?")