1. What are self-operated export and agency export?

Self - managed exportRefers to enterprises directly completing the entire export process in their own name, including:

• Apply for customs registration independently
• Independent declarationExport tax refund
• Signing an international trade contract
• ProcessingInternational SettlementCollecting

Agency export,The export process is completed through professional foreign trade companies, with typical characteristics including:

• Borrowing the import and export qualifications of the agent.
• The value-added tax invoice shall be issued by the agent.
• The agent shall handle customs declaration and tax refund on behalf of the principal.
• Agency service fee is required (typically 0.8%-1.5%).

II. What are the requirements for a company to choose self-operated export?

According to the latest regulations in 2025, the following requirements must be met to apply for self-operated export rights:

• Valid business license (including import and export business scope)
• Customs Registration of Consignors and Consignees
• Foreign Exchange Administration records
• Electronic Port IC Card
• Determination of Export Tax Rebate (Exemption) Qualification

Specific recommendations :Starting from 2025, the nationwide "Single-Code Clearance" system will be implemented, requiring enterprises to ensure their ERP systems are compatible with customs data standards.

3. What potential risks should be noted in export agency?

• Funding risks:
  • The timeliness of foreign exchange receipt is affected by the agent.
  • Be vigilant against agencies misappropriating payment funds.
• The tax risks:
  • False invoicing joint liability
  • The progress of tax refund is uncontrollable.
• Legal risks:
  • The definition of liability in contract disputes is ambiguous.
  • Joint and Several Liability Risk for Intellectual Property Infringement

IV. How significant is the cost difference between self-operated and agency exports?

Taking an enterprise with an annual export volume of 20 million yuan as an example:

• Self-operated export costs:
  • Salary for full-time foreign trade personnel: approximately 150,000-200,000 yuan/year.
  • System maintenance cost: 30,000-50,000 yuan
  • Document handling cost: 0.3% of the cargo value
• Agency export cost:
  • Agency service fee: 1% of the cargo value (approximately 200,000 yuan)
  • Cost of capital occupation: 0.5-1%

Note:In 2025, multiple regions introduced digital subsidy policies for foreign trade enterprises, with self-operated enterprises eligible to apply for up to 50% subsidy for system construction.

V. How Should Foreign Trade Enterprises Make Their Choices in 2025?

• Situations suitable for self-operation:
  • Annual export value consistently exceeds 5 million yuan.
  • The product has continuous research and development capabilities.
  • Plan to establish an overseas distribution system.
• Situations suitable for agency:
  • Start-up phase or small-batch orders
  • Lack of professional foreign trade team
  • Involving special regulatory categories

Industry Trends:Year 2025Cross-border e-commerceThe proportion of B2B direct exports (Model 9710) has exceeded 35%. It is recommended that eligible enterprises prioritize adopting the self-operated model to access the customs cross-border e-commerce channel.

6. Can the two modes be used in combination?

Based on our experience serving over 200 enterprises, we recommend adopting:

• Main products self-operated: Build brand premium
• Non-core product agency: Reduce operational costs
• Exclusive regional agent: Addressing Country-Specific Trade Barriers

Case of a Machinery Manufacturing Enterprise: Self-operated exports to European and American markets, with South American CE certification products handled through agents, achieving an annual compliance cost savings of 800,000 yuan.