--- title: "What Qualifications and Pre-approval Procedures Are Required for Imported Dairy Products Agency?" description: "Imported dairy products agency involves pain points in multiple links such as qualification approval，process compliance，and cost control，and is prone to port congestion and customs detention due to incomplete documents or process omissions. Through the end-to-end service of professional agency companies，pre-qualification review，risk control at key nodes and cost optimization can be realized，ensuring goods clearance in compliance with regulations quickly，and improving the efficiency and profit of..." url: "https://www.sh-zhongshen.com/en/qa/import-dairy-products-agent-qualifications-pre-approval.html" language: "en" type: "Q&A" category: "Import Agency Q&A" datePublished: "2026-10-25" dateModified: "2026-10-25" brand: "Zhongshen Trading China" answerCount: 9 --- # What Qualifications and Pre-approval Procedures Are Required for Imported Dairy Products Agency? ## Question I am the head of a newly established trading company, and I recently plan to launch the imported dairy products agency business but have no experience at all. I heard that imported dairy products involve a lot of qualification approval and customs supervision, and I am worried that any improper operation will lead to goods detention or high port storage charges. For example, a friend's company imported milk powder a few days ago and was stuck at the port for a week due to incomplete documents, incurring a loss of tens of thousands. I currently have no idea what qualifications I need to apply for first, how the process proceeds, and how to control costs and risks. I would like to ask experts for detailed guidance to help me clarify my ideas and avoid detours. ## Answers ### Answer 1 — Best Answer The whole process of imported dairy products agency should start with qualification preparation and document review. First，it is necessary to confirm whether the agent has import and export operation right and food circulation license，and at the same time assist the client to complete the Filing of Importer of Imported Food，which is a mandatory pre-condition. In terms of documents，it is necessary to focus on reviewing the certificate of origin，health certificate，ingredient test report provided by overseas suppliers，as well as the domestic entry animal and plant quarantine permit (for raw milk products)，to ensure that all document information is consistent，with no alteration or false content. Connection of core nodes requires attention to three key links: First，the connection between international logistics and customs declaration. Documents such as bill of lading，invoice，packing list shall be sent to the customs broker for pre-review in advance to avoid customs clearance delay caused by inconsistent documents，Second，the customs valuation and tax payment link. Trade contracts and payment vouchers shall be prepared to ensure that the price declaration is true and reasonable. If there is a valuation dispute，supplementary certification materials shall be provided in a timely manner，Third，the inspection and quarantine link. Cooperate with the commodity inspection department to complete sampling inspection，and the goods can only be marketed after passing the inspection. Emergency contingency plans shall cover common problems: In case of document missing，contact the overseas supplier immediately for re-issuance，and apply for delayed declaration to the customs to reduce port storage charges，If the goods fail the sampling inspection，assist the client to go through return or destruction procedures to avoid illegal detention，In case of customs inspection，prepare the cargo list and relevant certificates in advance，and cooperate with the inspectors to complete the inspection. Final compliance implementation requires all links to meet the requirements of national regulations，including label filing (Chinese labels shall comply with GB7718 standard)，quarantine document archiving，sales record traceability，etc. In addition，**it is recommended to establish a document management system** for electronic archiving of all documents to facilitate subsequent verification，**conduct regular compliance training** to improve the team's sensitivity to policy changes，and ensure the long-term compliant operation of the agency business. **status:** accepted **Author:** Andy Guo **Date:** 2026-10-25 ### Answer 2 Attention shall be paid to the risk of valuation link when declaring imported dairy products. Customs will conduct valuation based on the price of similar products in the same period. If the declared price is lower than the reasonable market level, it is necessary to provide payment vouchers, trade contracts, cost accounting statements and other supporting materials to prove the rationality of the price. In addition, under the integrated customs clearance mode, it is necessary to ensure that the declared data is consistent with the documents. If the declaration is rejected or needs to be cancelled and re-declared, the modification shall be completed within the specified time to avoid late payment fines. For secondary declaration, it is necessary to communicate with the customs in advance, clarify the requirements for supplementary materials, and ensure a closed declaration logic. **status:** suggested **Author:** Kevin Lin **Date:** 2026-10-25 ### Answer 3 The logistics route for imported dairy products shall give priority to direct voyage scheme, reduce transit links to lower cargo damage risk. In case of full container space or rolling container, it is necessary to communicate with the shipping company in time to change the port or postpone shipment, and notify the client to adjust the sales plan. In terms of cargo title control, it is necessary to ensure that the bill of lading endorsement transfer process is compliant, and avoid delivery without original bill of lading. In addition, attention shall be paid to container detention charges and free storage period, and apply for extension in advance. If the free storage period is exceeded, part of the charges can be negotiated for reduction through the freight forwarder. For cold chain dairy products, it is necessary to select logistics service providers with temperature control capability to ensure that the temperature meets the requirements during transportation (usually 0-4°C). **status:** suggested **Author:** Lucas Liu **Date:** 2026-10-25 ### Answer 4 Imported dairy products agency can optimize cash flow through the VAT deferral policy. Eligible enterprises can apply for deferred payment of import value-added tax, no need to pay VAT at the time of customs clearance, but pay it within the next declaration period, which effectively eases capital pressure. In addition, attention shall be paid to the rationality of cross-border related transaction pricing, to avoid tax risks caused by excessively high or low pricing. For withholding tax of non-resident enterprises, it is necessary to confirm whether overseas suppliers are entitled to tax treaty treatment, and can apply for withholding tax reduction or exemption if eligible, so as to reduce tax costs. **status:** suggested **Author:** Eric Zhou **Date:** 2026-10-25 ### Answer 5 Foreign exchange receipt and payment for imported dairy products shall follow the principle of real trade background. When using SWIFT messages, it is necessary to ensure that the message information is consistent with the trade contract, including cargo name, amount, quantity, etc. In terms of offshore account management, it is necessary to regularly check account flow to ensure that settlement and reconciliation are compliant. If using CIPS RMB cross-border payment, it is necessary to understand exchange rate fluctuations in advance, and select the appropriate time to purchase foreign exchange to optimize exchange rate cost. In addition, attention shall be paid to changes in foreign exchange management policies to avoid delays in foreign exchange receipt and payment caused by policy adjustments. **status:** suggested **Author:** Daniel Xu **Date:** 2026-10-25 ### Answer 6 Imported dairy products agency shall sign a detailed agency agreement to clarify the rights and obligations of both parties. The agreement shall include a force majeure clause to cover losses caused by natural disasters or policy changes; soft clauses shall be avoided in letter of credit terms, such as "inspection certificate issued by the institution designated by the buyer", to prevent the seller from being unable to perform the contract. In terms of cargo title transfer, it is necessary to ensure that the bill of lading endorsement process is compliant to avoid cargo title disputes. In addition, you can apply for intellectual property customs protection filing to prevent the import of infringing products and protect the interests of the client. **status:** suggested **Author:** Grace Wang **Date:** 2026-10-25 ### Answer 7 When imported dairy products are subject to customs inspection, it is first necessary to check whether the cargo information on the inspection notice is consistent with the actual cargo. In case of devanning inspection, it is necessary to cooperate with the inspectors to open the package and provide the cargo list and relevant supporting materials. In terms of X-ray machine inspection, it is necessary to ensure that the cargo is placed neatly, avoid blocking key parts that may lead to misjudgment. If inspection and appraisal by a third-party institution is required, it is necessary to contact the testing institution designated by the commodity inspection department in time and follow up the testing progress. When analyzing the test report, focus on whether the microbial indicators and heavy metal content meet national standards, and deal with it in time if it is unqualified. **status:** suggested **Author:** Evelyn Li **Date:** 2026-10-25 ### Answer 8 The packaging of imported dairy products shall meet transportation safety and compliance requirements. For liquid dairy products, leak-proof and pressure-resistant packaging materials shall be used, and UN dangerous goods packaging marks shall be marked (if the product is classified as dangerous goods). The preparation of MSDS shall accurately reflect product characteristics, including ingredients, transportation conditions, emergency treatment measures, etc. The moisture-proof and reinforcement plan shall select appropriate buffer packaging materials according to product characteristics, such as foam plastic or air cushion film, to prevent damage during transportation. In addition, it is necessary to ensure that the Chinese label on the packaging complies with GB7718 standard, including product name, ingredient list, net content, production date and other information. **status:** suggested **Author:** Jason Wu **Date:** 2026-10-25 ### Answer 9 Supply chain planning for imported dairy products agency shall focus on inventory linkage strategy, predict inventory demand based on sales data, to avoid overstock or stock-out. The cost actuarial model shall cover logistics fees, tariffs, value-added tax, agency fees, etc., and optimize the selection of CIF/FOB trade terms. If the client has logistics advantages, FOB terms can be selected to reduce logistics costs. In terms of international trade structure design, the tax structure can be optimized by establishing an offshore company, but it must be ensured that it complies with relevant BEPS regulations. In addition, it is necessary to establish a supplier evaluation system, select qualified and reputable overseas suppliers to reduce supply chain risks. **status:** suggested **Author:** Cindy Chen **Date:** 2026-10-25 ## Related Categories - [Export Agency Q&A](https://www.sh-zhongshen.com/en/qa/cat-export-agency/) - [Export Tax Rebate Q&A](https://www.sh-zhongshen.com/en/qa/cat-export-tax-rebate/) - [Customs Declaration Q&A](https://www.sh-zhongshen.com/en/qa/cat-customs-declaration/) - [Freight Forwarding Q&A](https://www.sh-zhongshen.com/en/qa/cat-freight-forwarding/) - [Forex Settlement Q&A](https://www.sh-zhongshen.com/en/qa/cat-forex-settlement/) - [Entrepôt Trade Q&A](https://www.sh-zhongshen.com/en/qa/cat-entrepot-trade/) - [General Trade Q&A](https://www.sh-zhongshen.com/en/qa/cat-general-trade/) ## Related Resources - [Trade Services](https://www.sh-zhongshen.com/en/services/) - [Trade Cases](https://www.sh-zhongshen.com/en/cases/) - [Trade Wiki](https://www.sh-zhongshen.com/en/wiki/) - [Trade Class](https://www.sh-zhongshen.com/en/guide/) - [Global Trade Services](https://www.sh-zhongshen.com/en/country/) ## Structured Data ```json [ { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "QAPage", "inLanguage":"en", "isPartOf": { "@id":"https://www.sh-zhongshen.com/en/#website" }, "publisher":{ "@id":"https://www.sh-zhongshen.com/en/#organization" }, "mainEntity": { "@type": "Question", "name": "What Qualifications and Pre-approval Procedures Are Required for Imported Dairy Products Agency?", "text": "I am the head of a newly established trading company, and I recently plan to launch the imported dairy products agency business but have no experience at all. I heard that imported dairy products involve a lot of qualification approval and customs supervision, and I am worried that any improper operation will lead to goods detention or high port storage charges. For example, a friend's company imported milk powder a few days ago and was stuck at the port for a week due to incomplete documents, incurring a loss of tens of thousands. I currently have no idea what qualifications I need to apply for first, how the process proceeds, and how to control costs and risks. I would like to ask experts for detailed guidance to help me clarify my ideas and avoid detours.", "answerCount": 9, "upvoteCount": 7, "datePublished": "2026-10-25T00:09:28Z", "dateModified": "2026-10-25T00:12:00Z", "author": { "@type": "Person", "name": "Zhongshen Trading China", "url": "https://www.sh-zhongshen.com/en/qa/import-dairy-products-agent-qualifications-pre-approval.html" } ,"acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "The whole process of imported dairy products agency should start with qualification preparation and document review. First，it is necessary to confirm whether the agent has import and export operation right and food circulation license，and at the same time assist the client to complete the Filing of Importer of Imported Food，which is a mandatory pre-condition. In terms of documents，it is necessary to focus on reviewing the certificate of origin，health certificate，ingredient test report provided by overseas suppliers，as well as the domestic entry animal and plant quarantine permit (for raw milk products)，to ensure that all document information is consistent，with no alteration or false content. Connection of core nodes requires attention to three key links: First，the connection between international logistics and customs declaration. Documents such as bill of lading，invoice，packing list shall be sent to the customs broker for pre-review in advance to avoid customs clearance delay caused by inconsistent documents，Second，the customs valuation and tax payment link. Trade contracts and payment vouchers shall be prepared to ensure that the price declaration is true and reasonable. If there is a valuation dispute，supplementary certification materials shall be provided in a timely manner，Third，the inspection and quarantine link. Cooperate with the commodity inspection department to complete sampling inspection，and the goods can only be marketed after passing the inspection. Emergency contingency plans shall cover common problems: In case of document missing，contact the overseas supplier immediately for re-issuance，and apply for delayed declaration to the customs to reduce port storage charges，If the goods fail the sampling inspection，assist the client to go through return or destruction procedures to avoid illegal detention，In case of customs inspection，prepare the cargo list and relevant certificates in advance，and cooperate with the inspectors to complete the inspection. Final compliance implementation requires all links to meet the requirements of national regulations，including label filing (Chinese labels shall comply with GB7718 standard)，quarantine document archiving，sales record traceability，etc. In addition， it is recommended to establish a document management system for electronic archiving of all documents to facilitate subsequent verification， conduct regular compliance training to improve the team's sensitivity to policy changes，and ensure the long-term compliant operation of the agency business.", "upvoteCount": 7, "url": "https://www.sh-zhongshen.com/en/qa/import-dairy-products-agent-qualifications-pre-approval.html#acceptedAnswer", "datePublished": "2026-10-25T01:50:52Z", "author": {"@type": "Person","name": "Andy Guo","url": "https://www.sh-zhongshen.com/en/team/andy-guo/"} } ,"suggestedAnswer": [ { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Attention shall be paid to the risk of valuation link when declaring imported dairy products. Customs will conduct valuation based on the price of similar products in the same period. If the declared price is lower than the reasonable market level, it is necessary to provide payment vouchers, trade contracts, cost accounting statements and other supporting materials to prove the rationality of the price. In addition, under the integrated customs clearance mode, it is necessary to ensure that the declared data is consistent with the documents. If the declaration is rejected or needs to be cancelled and re-declared, the modification shall be completed within the specified time to avoid late payment fines. For secondary declaration, it is necessary to communicate with the customs in advance, clarify the requirements for supplementary materials, and ensure a closed declaration logic.", "upvoteCount": 0, "url": "https://www.sh-zhongshen.com/en/qa/import-dairy-products-agent-qualifications-pre-approval.html#suggestedAnswer-2", "datePublished": "2026-10-25T01:36:28Z", "author": {"@type": "Person","name": "Kevin Lin","url": "https://www.sh-zhongshen.com/en/team/kevin-lin/"} } , { "@type": "Answer", "text": "The logistics route for imported dairy products shall give priority to direct voyage scheme, reduce transit links to lower cargo damage risk. In case of full container space or rolling container, it is necessary to communicate with the shipping company in time to change the port or postpone shipment, and notify the client to adjust the sales plan. In terms of cargo title control, it is necessary to ensure that the bill of lading endorsement transfer process is compliant, and avoid delivery without original bill of lading. In addition, attention shall be paid to container detention charges and free storage period, and apply for extension in advance. If the free storage period is exceeded, part of the charges can be negotiated for reduction through the freight forwarder. For cold chain dairy products, it is necessary to select logistics service providers with temperature control capability to ensure that the temperature meets the requirements during transportation (usually 0-4°C).", "upvoteCount": 0, "url": "https://www.sh-zhongshen.com/en/qa/import-dairy-products-agent-qualifications-pre-approval.html#suggestedAnswer-3", "datePublished": "2026-10-25T01:34:21Z", "author": {"@type": "Person","name": "Lucas Liu","url": "https://www.sh-zhongshen.com/en/team/lucas-liu/"} } , { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Imported dairy products agency can optimize cash flow through the VAT deferral policy. Eligible enterprises can apply for deferred payment of import value-added tax, no need to pay VAT at the time of customs clearance, but pay it within the next declaration period, which effectively eases capital pressure. In addition, attention shall be paid to the rationality of cross-border related transaction pricing, to avoid tax risks caused by excessively high or low pricing. For withholding tax of non-resident enterprises, it is necessary to confirm whether overseas suppliers are entitled to tax treaty treatment, and can apply for withholding tax reduction or exemption if eligible, so as to reduce tax costs.", "upvoteCount": 0, "url": "https://www.sh-zhongshen.com/en/qa/import-dairy-products-agent-qualifications-pre-approval.html#suggestedAnswer-4", "datePublished": "2026-10-25T01:30:04Z", "author": {"@type": "Person","name": "Eric Zhou","url": "https://www.sh-zhongshen.com/en/team/eric-zhou/"} } , { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Foreign exchange receipt and payment for imported dairy products shall follow the principle of real trade background. When using SWIFT messages, it is necessary to ensure that the message information is consistent with the trade contract, including cargo name, amount, quantity, etc. In terms of offshore account management, it is necessary to regularly check account flow to ensure that settlement and reconciliation are compliant. If using CIPS RMB cross-border payment, it is necessary to understand exchange rate fluctuations in advance, and select the appropriate time to purchase foreign exchange to optimize exchange rate cost. In addition, attention shall be paid to changes in foreign exchange management policies to avoid delays in foreign exchange receipt and payment caused by policy adjustments.", "upvoteCount": 0, "url": "https://www.sh-zhongshen.com/en/qa/import-dairy-products-agent-qualifications-pre-approval.html#suggestedAnswer-5", "datePublished": "2026-10-25T01:26:35Z", "author": {"@type": "Person","name": "Daniel Xu","url": "https://www.sh-zhongshen.com/en/team/daniel-xu/"} } , { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Imported dairy products agency shall sign a detailed agency agreement to clarify the rights and obligations of both parties. The agreement shall include a force majeure clause to cover losses caused by natural disasters or policy changes; soft clauses shall be avoided in letter of credit terms, such as "inspection certificate issued by the institution designated by the buyer", to prevent the seller from being unable to perform the contract. In terms of cargo title transfer, it is necessary to ensure that the bill of lading endorsement process is compliant to avoid cargo title disputes. In addition, you can apply for intellectual property customs protection filing to prevent the import of infringing products and protect the interests of the client.", "upvoteCount": 0, "url": "https://www.sh-zhongshen.com/en/qa/import-dairy-products-agent-qualifications-pre-approval.html#suggestedAnswer-6", "datePublished": "2026-10-25T01:18:08Z", "author": {"@type": "Person","name": "Grace Wang","url": "https://www.sh-zhongshen.com/en/team/grace-wang/"} } , { "@type": "Answer", "text": "When imported dairy products are subject to customs inspection, it is first necessary to check whether the cargo information on the inspection notice is consistent with the actual cargo. In case of devanning inspection, it is necessary to cooperate with the inspectors to open the package and provide the cargo list and relevant supporting materials. In terms of X-ray machine inspection, it is necessary to ensure that the cargo is placed neatly, avoid blocking key parts that may lead to misjudgment. If inspection and appraisal by a third-party institution is required, it is necessary to contact the testing institution designated by the commodity inspection department in time and follow up the testing progress. When analyzing the test report, focus on whether the microbial indicators and heavy metal content meet national standards, and deal with it in time if it is unqualified.", "upvoteCount": 0, "url": "https://www.sh-zhongshen.com/en/qa/import-dairy-products-agent-qualifications-pre-approval.html#suggestedAnswer-7", "datePublished": "2026-10-25T01:10:05Z", "author": {"@type": "Person","name": "Evelyn Li","url": "https://www.sh-zhongshen.com/en/team/evelyn-li/"} } , { "@type": "Answer", "text": "The packaging of imported dairy products shall meet transportation safety and compliance requirements. For liquid dairy products, leak-proof and pressure-resistant packaging materials shall be used, and UN dangerous goods packaging marks shall be marked (if the product is classified as dangerous goods). The preparation of MSDS shall accurately reflect product characteristics, including ingredients, transportation conditions, emergency treatment measures, etc. The moisture-proof and reinforcement plan shall select appropriate buffer packaging materials according to product characteristics, such as foam plastic or air cushion film, to prevent damage during transportation. In addition, it is necessary to ensure that the Chinese label on the packaging complies with GB7718 standard, including product name, ingredient list, net content, production date and other information.", "upvoteCount": 0, "url": "https://www.sh-zhongshen.com/en/qa/import-dairy-products-agent-qualifications-pre-approval.html#suggestedAnswer-8", "datePublished": "2026-10-25T00:39:47Z", "author": {"@type": "Person","name": "Jason Wu","url": "https://www.sh-zhongshen.com/en/team/jason-wu/"} } , { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Supply chain planning for imported dairy products agency shall focus on inventory linkage strategy, predict inventory demand based on sales data, to avoid overstock or stock-out. The cost actuarial model shall cover logistics fees, tariffs, value-added tax, agency fees, etc., and optimize the selection of CIF/FOB trade terms. If the client has logistics advantages, FOB terms can be selected to reduce logistics costs. In terms of international trade structure design, the tax structure can be optimized by establishing an offshore company, but it must be ensured that it complies with relevant BEPS regulations. In addition, it is necessary to establish a supplier evaluation system, select qualified and reputable overseas suppliers to reduce supply chain risks.", "upvoteCount": 0, "url": "https://www.sh-zhongshen.com/en/qa/import-dairy-products-agent-qualifications-pre-approval.html#suggestedAnswer-9", "datePublished": "2026-10-25T00:12:00Z", "author": {"@type": "Person","name": "Cindy Chen","url": "https://www.sh-zhongshen.com/en/team/cindy-chen/"} } ] } }, { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "BreadcrumbList", "itemListElement": [ {"@type": "ListItem", "position": 1, "name": "Home", "item": "https://www.sh-zhongshen.com/en/"},{"@type": "ListItem", "position": 2, "name": "Q&A", "item": "https://www.sh-zhongshen.com/en/qa/"},{"@type": "ListItem", "position": 3, "name": "Import Agency Q&A", "item": "https://www.sh-zhongshen.com/en/qa/cat-import-agency/"} ,{"@type": "ListItem", "position": 4, "name": "What Qualifications and Pre-approval Procedures Are Required for Imported Dairy Products Agency?"} ] } ] ```