What isExport agentcertificate?

Export agentCertificate (Export Agency Certificate) is a legal document in international trade provided by enterprises with import and export rights for manufacturers without such qualifications. According to the latest revised Customs Law Implementation Regulations in 2025, this document must clearly record the rights and obligations between the entrusting party and the entrusted party, serving as important evidence for customs to verify the actual source of goods.

Why do foreign trade companies need export agency certificates?

• Solving the problem of manufacturers lacking import and export rights
• AvoidingCustoms declarationThe risks of "exporting without foreign exchange settlement" in China
• EnsuringExport tax refundCompliance
  • In 2023, a Ningbo company was required to repay 2.3 million yuan in tax refunds due to missing agency certificates
  • In a false trade case uncovered by Shenzhen Customs in 2024, agency certificates became key evidence
• Establishing a complete foreign trade evidence chain

In what situations must export agency certificates be provided?

According to Announcement No. 58 of the General Administration of Customs in 2025, the following three situationsMandatory,Require:

• The entrusting party is a domestic enterprise without import and export rights
• The actual manufacturer of goods differs from the declared party in customs declaration
• Involving special regulated goods (such as medical devices, chemical products)

How to correctly apply for an export agency certificate?

Standard application process includes:

• Signing a formal agency agreement (must include product details and liability division clauses)
• Preparing a duplicate of the three-in-one business license
• Submitting goods production certification materials
  • Special VAT invoices
  • Production process record sheet
• Declaration through the International Trade "Single Window" system.

Common Misconceptions and Risk Warnings

• Misconception 1:"A pro forma invoice can substitute for an agency certificate" (In 2023, a Shanghai-based trading company was fined 850,000 yuan for this violation).
• Misconception 2:Key elements missing in agency agreements (such as dispute resolution clauses)
• Risk Warning:Starting from 2025, customs will strengthen verification of agency relationship authenticity, using blockchain technology to trace goods flow records

What is the validity period of an export agency certificate?

The standard validity period isA: Generally, but note:

• Seasonal goods should specifically indicate their validity period
• Cross-year operations require re-processing
• Goods specification changes require simultaneous updates to supporting documents

How does it differ from a customs declaration form?

• Legal effect:The agency certificate serves as a prerequisite document, while the customs declaration form functions as the clearance credential
• Content differences:The agency certificate focuses on commercial relationships, whereas the customs declaration form records cargo details
• Archiving requirements:The agency certificate must be retained for 5 years for reference

How to reapply if lost?

Must be completed within 10 working days after the incident:

• Publish a loss statement in provincial-level or higher newspapers
• Submit an explanatory statement with supporting materials
• Pay administrative reissuance fees (2025 standard: 200 yuan per copy)

What to pay attention to when selecting an agency company?

• Verify AEO (Authorized Economic Operator) certification status with customs
• Verify historical violation records (can be checked on the "Credit China" website).
• Assess professional service capabilities
  • Whether trade compliance specialists are assigned
  • Whether intelligent customs clearance systems are utilized

What are the new changes in 2025?

• Electronic seals fully replace paper documents
• New carbon emission information reporting requirements
• Establish a credit rating system for agency enterprises (AAA-rated companies enjoy expedited clearance)