International logistics import and export rights application process

The application process of international logistics import and export rights involves multiple departments and steps. The following is a detailed description of the process:

1. Preliminary preparation

Confirm the business scope: First, the company needs to confirm whether the business scope on its business license includes "import and export of goods" or "import and export of technology". If not, it is necessary to go to the industrial and commercial administrative department (now mostly the Market Supervision Administration) to handle the business scope change procedures.

Document preparation: Prepare a full set of materials required for import and export rights, including but not limited to the original copy of the business license, official seal, private seal, copy of the account opening license (bank public accounts are recommended to choose larger banks, such as Industrial and Commercial Bank of China, Agricultural Bank of China, Bank of China, China Construction Bank, etc.), company articles of association, original lease contract (if any), etc.

2. Filing and registration

Foreign trade operator filing: It was originally necessary to go to the Foreign Trade Bureau to handle the "Foreign Trade Operator Filing Registration Form", but it should be noted that this step may have been adjusted or cancelled according to the latest policy. For details, please consult the local foreign trade department or relevant government agencies.

Customs filing and registration: Go to the customs to file the consignee and consignor of imported and exported goods, obtain the "Customs Registration Certificate for Consignees and Consignors of Import and Export Goods of the People's Republic of China" and the customs import and export code for import and export declaration.

Electronic port account opening: Apply to join the China Electronic Port System and apply for an electronic port card (or IC card), which will be used for electronic operations such as customs declaration, foreign exchange settlement, and tax refund.

III. Filing and licensing

Entry-Exit Inspection and Quarantine Bureau filing: Obtain a quarantine filing code to ensure that imported and exported goods meet relevant quality standards. However, it should be noted that this step may have been adjusted or merged with other departments according to the latest policies. For details, please consult the local entry-exit inspection and quarantine department or relevant government agencies.

Foreign exchange account filing: According to the relevant regulations of the State Administration of Foreign Exchange, enterprises need to go through the foreign exchange account filing procedures for international settlement. However, it should be noted that from June 1, 2024, the registration of the "Trade Foreign Exchange Receipts and Payments Enterprise List" has been adjusted to banks. Enterprises can directly register the list at domestic banks without having to file with the State Administration of Foreign Exchange.

Other licenses and filings: According to actual needs, enterprises may also need to handle other related licenses and filing procedures, such as special commodity import and export licenses, 3C certification, etc.

4. Subsequent procedures and application for certificates

Export tax rebate registration: Go to the national tax department to handle export tax rebate registration procedures to ensure that the company can enjoy the export tax rebate policy.

Apply for certificates: After the entire process is completed, the certificates that the company needs to apply for include but are not limited to the registration form for foreign trade operators (if still required), customs import and export goods consignee and consignor declaration registration certificate, electronic port card (or IC card), foreign exchange account opening license (if the bank directly handles it, there is no need to apply separately), export tax rebate registration certificate, etc. However, it should be noted that the specific certificates applied for may vary depending on factors such as region and policy.

5. Precautions

Policy changes: Since policies may change at any time, enterprises should pay attention to the latest notices and regulations of relevant departments when applying for import and export rights.

Department coordination: During the process of handling, it is necessary to coordinate cooperation and communication between multiple departments to ensure the smooth handling of various procedures.

Time planning: The entire process takes about 60 working days (the specific time may vary depending on factors such as region and policy), and enterprises should make time plans in advance.

Applying for international logistics import and export rights is a complex process involving multiple departments. Enterprises need to prepare complete information, choose appropriate banks, register, obtain relevant certificates, and pay close attention to policy changes to ensure the smooth progress of the entire process.