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Import - Export

Import Export License Registration

Apply for an import / export license to import into and export out of China.

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Register for Customs and Start Trading Now!

To pass customs on imports to or exports out of China, a trading company equipped with a proper import and/or export license is required. These licenses differ based on the HS codes of the products that the company wished to trade. HS is short for Harmonized System which is an internationally-standardized system of names and numbers to classify traded products worldwide. HS codes range between 8 to 12 digits numbers varying from country to country. China uses a 10 digit HS code system.

In China there are 2 types of import – export licenses, general license and special license. A general license is issued to trading companies trading “normal” goods whereas a special import-export license is required for the trade of “restricted” goods as these are under tight quality or quantity control.

A special license is required for the following products: food, cosmetics, medical, dairy, meat, fish, pet food, baby formula, agricultural GMOs, dietary supplements, pharmaceuticals, and “dangerous” goods.

 

Application Documents:

  • Company name and company number
  • Consignee in China
  • Import license number and expiry date
  • Terms of trade and of foreign exchange
  • Location of clearance
  • Country of destination and of origin
  • Usage for the goods
  • Description of goods and HS code
  • Unit quantity and unit price
  • Supplementary details (if applicable)
  • Issuing authority stamp
import export license

China Trading Company Registration Procedure

1. Preparation

Deciding your company's structure and details.

2. Document submission

Collection and organizing your company registration application.

15 working days

3. Company registration

Application with the administration for Market Regulation (AMR). Your wholly owned foreign enterprise is registered and company chops issued.

15 working days

4. Corporate Accounts

Opening of your corporate bank account & tax accounts.

5. License applications

Application and issuance of additional licenses if applicable.

6. Post-registration support

Monthly tax & accounting reports for compliance.

Import / Export License Company Types

Trading WFOE

For companies importing into or exporting out of China.

Trading WFOEs are essentially consulting WFOEs armed with an import/export license and other licenses for specialty products. Trading companies can take advantage of Free Trade zones in Shanghai & Guangdong.

Manufacturing WFOE

For companies conducting manufacturing operations in China.

A manufacturing Wholly Foreign Owned Enterprise is a highly specialized WFOE that has passed safety and environmental government examinations in order to manufacture products in China. Ideal for assembling final or intermediate goods.

Joint Venture

For companies with foreign and Chinese shareholders.

A joint venture (JV) is a company with both foreign shareholders and Chinese shareholders. As of 2021, there is no % ownership limitation of any party in the JV. JVs are able to operate in more restrictive and higher liability business sectors within China.

Our Working Process

1. Consultation & Proposal

We (can) advise you on the best solution for your business model and send you our comprehensive proposal.

2. Signing & Payment

After reviewing the proposal, we sign the service contract and receive your payment.

3. Preparing Documents

We send you an application form as well as the list of documents we need from your side.

Imports & Exports FAQs

An import/export license is a legal document required for companies in China to engage in international trade. It authorizes businesses to import goods into China or export products to other countries.

Yes, foreign-invested enterprises (like WFOEs or JVs) can apply for an import/export license after their business registration is complete.

Key requirements include:

  • A registered Chinese entity (e.g., WFOE or JV).
  • A valid business license with “import/export” included in the business scope.
  • Registration with customs authorities and the Ministry of Commerce (MOFCOM).
  • A corporate bank account for foreign currency transactions.
  1. Update your business scope to include import/export activities.
  2. Register with Chinese customs.
  3. Obtain a foreign trade operator filing certificate from MOFCOM.
  4. Register with the China Electronic Port System for customs declarations.
  5. Complete tax-related registrations, such as for VAT rebates (for exports).

Companies without an import/export license cannot engage in international trade. However, they can use third-party import/export agents (trade companies) to facilitate transactions.

No, specific products may require additional permits or certifications, such as:

  • Food imports (need CIQ clearance).
  • Pharmaceuticals (require specific drug import/export licenses).
  • Restricted or controlled goods (require special approval).

Customs duties vary based on the product category, HS code, and trade agreements. China offers reduced tariffs for countries with free trade agreements (FTAs).