Foreign tradeImport agent: A strategic choice for enterprises global procurement
In the current global supply chain restructuring, foreign tradeImport agenthas become an important choice for enterprises to optimize procurement processes and reduce operational risks. According to the latest data from the General Administration of Customs, in 2023, import business completed through agents accounted for 45%, an increase of 12 percentage points compared to pre-pandemic levels.
Core Value of Import Agency
- Professional team: Avoid trade risks and ensure compliant operations
- Cost optimization: Integrate logistics resources and reduce procurement costs
- Efficiency improvement: Simplify operational processes and shorten delivery cycles
- Risk sharing: Transfer trade risks and ensure fund security
Comprehensive Analysis of the Import Agency Process
Taking CIFTrade termsas an example, the typical import agent process is as follows:
1. Preparation Phase
| Steps | Precautions |
|---|---|
| Signed Agreement | Clarify the rights and responsibilities of both parties and agree on the cost settlement method |
| Handle relevant qualifications | Including customs registration, SAFE (State Administration of Foreign Exchange) filing, etc. |
| Open a letter of credit (L/C) | Pay attention to the latest revised clauses of UCP600 |
Goods Transportation Phase
- Track cargo status
- Update shipping schedule information in real time
- Monitor cargo insurance
- Prepare customs clearance documents
- commercial invoice
- Packing List
- Certificate of Origin
3. Customs clearance and pickup stage
| Process | Time requirements |
|---|---|
| declare | Within 24 hours after arrival at port |
| Tax payment | Before customs release |
| Taking delivery | Within 3 days after customs release |
Key Points of Risk Prevention and Control
1. Trade risks
- Exchange Rate Fluctuation Risk
- Trade term selection risks
- Payment method risks
2. Operational risks
- Document consistency risks
- Commodity classification risks
- Inspection of vaccinesRisks
3. Legal Risks
- Anti-dumping duty risks
- Intellectual Property Risk
- Trade sanction risks
Professional recommendations
Based on 20 years of practical experience, we recommend that enterprises prioritize the following when selecting import agency services:
- Give priority to AEO-certified enterprises
- Pay attention to the overseas network layout of agents
- Evaluate the level of information system construction
- Assess risk management capabilities
- Confirm after-sales service guarantees
withThe RCEPWith the in-depth implementation of agreements, the import agency industry is ushering in new development opportunities. Enterprises should seize policy dividends and leverage professional agency services to achieve transformation and upgrading in global procurement.
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