AgencyExport agentWhat exactly does it mean?

EntrustExport agentIt refers toproduction enterprises or traders entrusting the entire export process to foreign trade service companies with import/export qualifications. According to the latest interpretation by China Customs in 2025, under this model, the agent handles customs declaration, tax refund, foreign exchange collection and other procedures in its own name, while the principal focuses on product production and customer development.

Why is export agency service needed?

Our survey data from 2000 SMEs shows the core value of agency services lies in:

• Qualification threshold: Solving export difficulties for companies without import/export rights
• Professional Operations: Avoiding professional risks like customs documentation and foreign exchange verification
  • Among 23 violation cases uncovered by a local customs in 2024, 18 involved non-professional companies handling operations themselves
• Cost Optimization: Reducing per-shipment logistics and customs declaration costs through economies of scale

What specific services does export agency include?

A Standardized Agency Service Should Include:

• Complete documentation preparation (invoice, packing list, certificate of origin, etc.)
• Export customs clearanceand transportation arrangements
• Foreign exchange collection and tax refund declaration
  • 2025 new version of electronic tax refund system interface requirements
• Trade compliance review

IV. How to choose a reliable export agency company?

It is recommended to evaluate from three dimensions:

• Qualification verification: Check customs AEO certification, SAFE filing
• Service Transparency: Require detailed cost breakdown and operation node tracking
• Risk control: Confirm whether export credit insurance is purchased

How to ensure fund safety under agency mode?

a four - level risk prevention and control systemTripartite supervision mechanism:

• Foreign exchange payments must enter the agency companys supervised account
• Use bank guarantees to ensure tax refund security
• Regular reconciliation mechanism (recommended weekly reconciliation)

What are the latest composition standards for agency service fees in 2025?

Current industry fee standards typically include:

• Basic service fee: 0.8%-1.2% of goods value (depending on product complexity)
• Additional service fees:
  • Special document preparation (e.g. FORM E) 200-500 RMB/copy
  • Express customs clearance service fee starting from 1500 RMB/shipment

What are the core differences between agency and self-operated export?

Key differences are reflected in:

• Legal liability subject: The agent bears customs declaration responsibility
• Foreign exchange management: The agency company handles foreign exchange verification and cancellation
• Tax refund process: Unified tax refund processing by the agent

What risks might be encountered under agency mode?

Particular attention is needed:

• Risk of agency company misusing funds
• Customs clearance delays caused by document discrepancies
• Tax audits triggered by tax refund documentation flaws
  • 2024 case of client losses due to VAT invoice issues at an agency company

How to establish effective supervision mechanisms for agency cooperation?

The following measures are recommended:

• Sign detailed agency agreement including breach clauses
• Require the agent to provide a real-time logistics tracking system
• Conduct monthly cross-checking between customs declarations and foreign exchange receipts

In which situations must export agency be used?

According to current regulations, the following situations require mandatory agency services:

• Manufacturing enterprises without import-export operation rights
• Export goods subject to special supervision (e.g., medical devices)
• Target markets requiring specific trade qualifications (e.g., Middle East SASO certification)