How to Obtain Import Export Rights in China: A Complete Guide

Do you think that simply having ,business scope means a company can directly engage in international trade?The reality is different!Import-export operations involve a series of critical steps,such as customs registration and foreign exchange account opening,each being essential.

Even if a company has obtained import and export business scope approval on its business license and completed registration,this doesnt mean the company can immediately conduct actual import-export operations.Several important steps still need to be completed,including:

Customs Registration

Customs Registration: First,the company needs to register with China Customs to obtain a Customs Registration Code (also known as the 10-digit Customs Code).This is a prerequisite for the company to conduct import and export declarations.

(1) Application Methods: Submit the application online through the China International Trade Single Window or Internet + Customs platform,and provide relevant documents such as the companys business license and legal representatives identity proof.

(2) Importance: Without this code,customs brokers cannot use your company name for customs declaration,nor can they sign relevant customs service agreements.Therefore,the Customs Code is the foundation for conducting importoperations.

Opening a Foreign Exchange Account

Opening a foreign exchange account: The company needs to open a dedicated foreign exchange account with a bank to handle foreign exchange receipts and payments in import and export trade.

(1) Application method: Select a qualified bank and submit documents such as the business license,customs registration code,and legal representatives identity certificate.

(2) Importance: The opening of a foreign exchange account is a prerequisite for conducting international payments andtransactions.Without a foreign exchange account,a companys international transactions cannot proceed smoothly.

Import-Export Rights Registration

Filing with the Ministry of Commerce and the State Administration of Foreign Exchange: Companies need to register with the local commerce department to obtain theFiling for Foreign Trade Operator Registration and completing foreign exchange management filing.

(1) Application method: Submit business license,legal representative identification,customs registration code and other documents,usually through an online platform for application and await approval.

(2) Importance: Only after successful filing will the companys import and export rights officially take effect,allowing legal engagement in import and export trade.

IV.Filing with the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade (CCPIT).

CCPIT Filing: If applying for a Certificate of Origin (CO),filing with the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade (CCPIT) is also required.

(1) Application method: Submit company documents including business license,company seal,customs registration code,etc.to the local CCPIT office to obtain filing qualification.

(2) Importance: The Certificate of Origin is crucial in import and export trade,especially as a mandatory document for enjoying tariff preferences in specific countries.

Inspection,Quarantine and Other Relevant Registrations

Inspection and Quarantine Filing: Certain exported goods require inspection and quarantine,necessitating filing with the local inspection and quarantine authority.

(1) Application method: Submit relevant documents and materials based on product type and the requirements of the importing country.

(2) Importance: If a companys import/export products fall within the scope requiring inspection,inspection and quarantine filing is mandatory.

VAT Refund Filing

Filing: Export enterprises must also complete export tax rebate filing with the tax authorities to claim VAT refunds upon actual export.

(1) Application method: Companies must provide customs import/export consignee registration certificate,tax registration certificate,business license,and other documents to the local tax authority for processing.

(2) Importance: Only after completing tax rebate filing can companies enjoy national export tax rebate policies in export operations,reducing tax costs and enhancing export competitiveness.

Summary

In actual import/export operations,having only a business license and filing from the industrial and commercial administration is insufficient.Companies must also complete customs registration,foreign exchange account opening,Certificate of Origin filing,and other procedures to ensure full compliance qualifications.Through these preparations,companies can truly engage in legal international trade activities and enjoy relevant tax incentive policies.