Purchase Agent and Export&Import Solution

Compliance with Chinese regulations

Product compliance: Verify that your products meet China's quality, safety, and labeling requirements. This may include obtaining relevant certifications (e.g., CCC, CIQ, or SASO) or testing reports from accredited laboratories.

Import licensing: Some goods require import licenses or permits. Check the China Customs Import and Export Commodity Classification Catalogue (HS code) and consult with the relevant Chinese authorities or a professional trade consultant to determine if your products need any specific licenses.

Documentation preparation

Commercial Invoice: Prepare a detailed commercial invoice stating the value, quantity, and description of the goods, as well as the HS codes, country of origin, and terms of sale (e.g., Incoterms).

Packing List: Provide a detailed packing list indicating the contents of each package, including weights, dimensions, and marks/numbers.

Bill of Lading (for sea freight) or Air Waybill (for air freight): Issued by the carrier, these documents serve as proof of the contract of carriage and title to the goods.

Certificate of Origin (COO): Obtain a COO from the relevant authority in your country to certify the origin of the goods. Some preferential trade agreements may require a specific format or certification process.

Other documents (if applicable): Depending on the nature of your goods, you may need additional documentation such as health certificates, phytosanitary certificates, or quarantine inspection certificates.

Customs valuation and classification

Valuation: Ensure that your declared customs value aligns with China's valuation rules, typically based on the transaction value or other accepted methods (e.g., computed value, deductive value, or fallback method).

Classification: Accurately classify your goods using the correct HS codes, as this determines the applicable duties, taxes, and regulations.

Tariff and tax calculation

Duties: Calculate the applicable import duties based on the HS codes and the Most-Favored-Nation (MFN) tariff rates or preferential rates under free trade agreements (if applicable).

Value-Added Tax (VAT): Generally, imported goods are subject to a 13% or 9% VAT, depending on the product category. The tax base is usually the sum of the CIF (Cost, Insurance, Freight) value, import duties, and other taxes.

Consumption Tax (CT): Certain luxury items, high-end consumer goods, and environmentally harmful products may be subject to CT. Consult the Chinese tax regulations to determine if your goods are liable for CT.

Customs declaration

Engage a licensed customs broker: A local customs broker familiar with Chinese regulations can help prepare and submit the customs declaration on your behalf, ensuring compliance and minimizing delays.

Submit electronic declaration: Use the Single Window System (China International Trade Single Window, CITSW) or other designated platforms to submit the electronic customs declaration, along with supporting documents and payment of duties and taxes.

Inspection and clearance

Pre-shipment inspection (PSI): For certain goods or importers, China may require a pre-shipment inspection by an authorized agency (e.g., CCIC or CIQ). Arrange for this inspection in advance, if applicable.

Customs inspection: Upon arrival, Chinese customs may conduct documentary checks, physical inspections, or laboratory testing. Be prepared to provide additional information or samples if requested.

Release of goods: Once customs clearance is granted, obtain the Release Order or Customs Clearance Certificate and coordinate with your forwarder or logistics provider to retrieve the goods from the port or warehouse.

Post-clearance formalities

Record-filing for imported goods: For certain products, you may need to complete a record-filing procedure with relevant Chinese authorities (e.g., SAMR, NMPA, or AQSIQ) after customs clearance.

Retention of import documents: Retain all import-related documents for a specified period (usually several years) as required by Chinese regulations, as they may be needed for audits or disputes.

By diligently following these steps and staying updated on China's evolving trade policies and regulations, you can effectively navigate the export and customs clearance process for your goods entering China. Seeking professional advice from experienced trade consultants or customs brokers can further help ensure compliance and minimize potential challenges.