Home»Trade Guides» Agent Export: Guide to Streamlined Global Trade & Cost Savings
1. What exactly is export agency?
Agency export refers to the situation where an entity lacks independentImport and exportAuthorized enterprises, through collaboration with professionalsforeign tradeThe company signs an agency agreement to utilize its import and export qualifications for completing international trade transactions. According to the revised "Customs Law of the People's Republic of China" in 2023, compliant agency export must meet three basic conditions:
The agent must hold a valid foreign trade operator registration record.
Both parties shall sign a written agency agreement.
The customs declaration form must truthfully declare the agency relationship.
II. Why Choose Export Agency Services?
According to the 2025 international trade data, the proportion of small, medium, and micro enterprises in China utilizing export agency services has reached 63%. Their core advantages are reflected in:
Cost control:Save costs on full-time positions such as document clerks and customs declarers.
Risk avoidance: Professional companies handle complex matters such as foreign exchange verification and customs inspections.
Professional Assurance: Avoiding Legal Risks Arising from Improper Use of Trade Terms
Flexible settlement: Support new payment methods such as cross-border RMB settlement.
III. What is the specific service process for export agency?
Tax RebatesOperation (Reimbursement after advance payment by the agent)
IV. How to Identify a Compliant Export Agency Company?
According to the latest industry standards for 2025, high-quality agency companies should possess:
Customs AEO Advanced Certification qualification
Over 10 years of industry operational experience.
A logistics network covering major ports
A comprehensive risk control management system
Transparent pricing system.
E-Port Data Direct Connection Capability
V. Analysis of Common Issues in Agency Export
Q: Can I designate my own freight forwarder for export on behalf of others?
A: According to the General Principles of International Trade Agency, the principal has the right to designate a cooperating party, provided that the division of responsibilities is clearly stipulated in the agency agreement in advance.
Q: Who is the subject of export tax rebates?
A: The tax refund amount is initially collected by the agency company, and after deducting the service fee, it must be returned to the principal within 15 working days. This process is regulated by the "Interim Regulations on Value-Added Tax."
Q: How are goods in special regulatory zones handled?
A: It is necessary to select an agency company with bonded logistics operation qualifications and separately sign a supplementary agreement for goods agency in the supervision area.
6. Which types of enterprises are most suitable for export agency?
Start-up enterprises with an annual export volume of less than $3 million
Manufacturers whose products involve?3C certification?and other specially regulated categories
Mainly engaged in sample delivery and small trial order business.
Small and medium-sized manufacturers in need of exploring emerging markets