What is an import-export rights agency service?

Import-export rights agency refers to the service provided by professional agencies that handle the application for import-export operating qualifications on behalf of enterprises. According to the latest 2025 revision of the Foreign Trade Law, enterprises can obtain import-export rights through two methods:Self-applicationorEngage a professional agency. Proxy services typically include:

• Qualification Assessment
• Preparation of declaration materials
• Customs/Commerce Department Liaison
• Activation of the Electronic Port System
• Foreign Exchange Management Records

What are the basic requirements for applying for import and export rights?

The latest application requirements for 2025 mainly include:

• Enterprise type requirements
  • Limited Liability Company / Joint-Stock Limited Company
  • Sole Proprietorship (Special Approval Required)
• Registered capital requirements
  • For general trade enterprises, the minimum amount is RMB 500,000.
  • Special product categories require higher capital
• Business Scope Requirements
  • Must include either "import and export of goods" or "import and export of technology"

What is the specific process for applying as an agent?

The standardized process of a professional agency includes:

• Preliminary Preparation Phase (3–5 business days)
  • Enterprise Qualification Review
  • Electronic Business License Verification
  • Customs Credit Certification Pre-Review
• Application Phase (10–15 working days)
  • 28. Record - filing of foreign trade operators
  • Registration of customs importers and exporters
  • Application for electronic port IC card
• Post-launch activation phase (5–7 business days)
  • Register of Foreign Exchange Administration
  • Export tax refundQualification certification

What core materials need to be prepared?

2025 Latest Materials List Includes:

• Basic Licenses and Certificates
  • New version of the electronic business license
  • Legal Representative Digital Certificate
• Filing Documents
  • Feasibility Report on Import and Export Operations
  • Proof of Business Premises Use (requires blockchain authentication of real estate)
• Special Qualification Category
  • Import and export licenses for specific commodities (if applicable)
  • Environmental/Quality Certification Documents (if applicable)

What is the processing time and cost?

Latest processing status as of 2025:

• Specific Requirements
  • Self-service processing: approximately 2–3 months
  • Professional Agency: 15–25 business days
• Agency fee
  • Basic service fee: 8,000–15,000 RMB
  • Special Qualification Agency Service: Quoted Separately

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I apply without any import/export experience?
A: Yes, but you must outline the business plan in the feasibility report; some regions require participation in the customs AEO certification training.

Q: Does the agency service include post-delivery maintenance?
A: Formal agencies typically offer bundled services such as one-year bookkeeping and license annual review.

Q: What if my application gets rejected?
A: Professional agencies will provide a rectification plan; according to 2025 customs data, the success rate for agency applications can reach 98.7%.

Q: Is a separate application required for cross-border e-commerce?
A: Starting from 2024, enterprises in the cross-border e-commerce comprehensive pilot zones may apply concurrently, but they must additionally submit proof of overseas warehouse registration.

How to choose a reliable agency?

Key investigation recommendations:

• Customs AEO Advanced Certification Qualification
• Foreign trade service qualifications filed with the Ministry of Commerce
• Is full-process digital progress tracking provided?
• ?Cuenta con un equipo profesional de cumplimiento comercial?

Special Reminder: In 2025, electronic import/export qualification certificates have been fully implemented. During the application process, special attention must be paid to the validity and compatibility of digital certificates. Enterprises are advised to give priority to agencies with the capability to interface with the Customs Single Window system.