The Secrets of General Food Export Customs Clearance You Don't Know

In the wave of globalization, more and more general foods are embarking on the journey of export, delivering the flavors of various places to every corner of the world. However, the export customs clearance process is like a mountain that must be overcome, affecting whether food can smoothly enter the international market. Today, let's delve into the mysteries of the export customs clearance of general food together.

First of all, export enterprises need to complete enterprise filing. Relevant materials, including the enterprise's business license, food production license, etc., should be submitted to the local customs to ensure that the enterprise has legal export qualifications. For example, Mr. Zhang's food enterprise spent a lot of time and effort in preparing these materials and completing the filing process before preparing for export.

Secondly, conduct a detailed product classification of the exported food. The customs clearance requirements and tax rates for different types of food may vary greatly. Enterprises need to accurately judge the category of the food and determine the corresponding code according to the customs' commodity coding rules. For instance, when Ms. Li's company exported a special pastry, due to inaccurate product classification in the early stage, the customs clearance was blocked, wasting a lot of time and cost.

A commercial invoice is an essential document. It details key information such as the name, quantity, and value of the food, and is an important basis for the customs to evaluate and levy taxes on the goods. The packing list should clearly show the packaging of the food, including the weight, volume of each box, and the specific specifications of the food contained, facilitating the customs' inspection of the goods.

In addition, a certificate of origin is also required. This certificate proves the country of origin of the food and is crucial for enjoying preferential tariff policies under certain trade agreements. For example, under the free trade agreements signed between China and some countries, eligible exported food can enjoy a lower tariff rate in the importing country with the certificate of origin.

The safety of food is of utmost importance, so inspection and quarantine are key links in the export customs clearance of general food. Export enterprises should declare to the inspection and quarantine agency in advance, and professional personnel will sample and test the food. The test items cover multiple aspects such as microbiological indicators, heavy metal content, and additive use. Only when all indicators meet the standards of the importing country can the food obtain a certificate of inspection and quarantine compliance.

For example, a batch of canned food exported to the EU failed the inspection and quarantine due to excessive microorganisms and was returned, causing huge economic losses to the enterprise. Therefore, enterprises should strictly control the quality during the production process to ensure that the products meet the inspection and quarantine requirements of the importing country.

During the customs clearance process, closely monitor the instructions and requirements of the customs. If the customs has questions about the goods, such as discrepancies between the declared information and the actual goods, it will require the enterprise to provide explanations or supplementary materials. The enterprise should respond promptly and actively cooperate with the customs to avoid additional costs or impacts on the customs clearance of the goods due to delays.

At the same time, pay attention to the special regulations of different countries and regions. Each country has its own unique standards and requirements for food imports. For example, Japan has strict regulations on food labels, with clear requirements from the text content to the font size. Enterprises must understand and comply with these special regulations in advance to ensure the smooth customs clearance of food.

Although the export customs clearance of general food is full of challenges, as long as enterprises make sufficient preparations, are familiar with the customs clearance process and requirements, and strictly control the product quality, they can overcome this barrier and let delicious food shine in the global market. It is hoped that a large number of export enterprises can smoothly embark on their international food trade journey and play an important role in the global food exchange.