Guide for Foreigners to Establish Import &Export Trading Company


Detailed Guide for Foreigners to Establish Import & Export Trading Companies in China


With the gradual relaxation of visa-free policies, an increasing number of international friends are looking to establish their own import and export trading companies in China and invest in registering their enterprises. What are the specific steps to set up a foreign-invested trading company in China? How do you start from scratch? Here's a comprehensive guide:



01

TIPS

Approval of Company Name



First, you need to choose a unique name for your company and submit it to the Administration for Industry and Commerce (AIC) for preliminary approval to ensure there are no duplicate or similar enterprise names.


02

TIPS

Drafting the Articles of Association



The Articles of Association serve as the fundamental legal document for the company's operations. It must clearly outline the business scope, shareholder information, management structure, etc., and be signed by all shareholders.


If you encounter any questions or require professional guidance and support during the process of establishing your import and export trading company, feel free to contact Maggie at any time. We are here to provide you with comprehensive assistance!



03

TIPS

Engraving the Corporate Seal



The corporate seal is an essential credential for signing contracts and conducting legal activities on behalf of the company.


04

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Submitting the Registration Application



Submit the registration application to the AIC with documents such as the "Notice of Name Pre-Approval," Articles of Association, and shareholder identification.


05

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Engraving Official and Financial Seals



Take the business license to the designated seal engraving service approved by the Public Security Bureau to create official and financial seals.


06

TIPS

Opening a Corporate Bank Account



Open a basic corporate bank account for day-to-day financial management and transactions.


If you encounter any questions or require professional guidance and support during the process of establishing your import and export trading company, feel free to contact Maggie at any time. We are here to provide you with comprehensive assistance!



07

TIPS

Tax Registration



Within 15 days of obtaining the business license, register with the tax authority to determine applicable tax categories and begin tax filing and invoicing operations.


08

TIPS

Obtaining Import and Export Business Rights



Register as a foreign trade operator with the Bureau of Commerce and obtain the "Registration Form for Foreign Trade Operators."


Register with customs for customs declaration, engrave a customs-specific seal, and apply for the Customs Registration Certificate.


Complete self-inspection and registration procedures with the Entry-Exit Inspection and Quarantine Bureau.


Apply to the China E-Port for registration, obtain access permissions, and schedule an IC card.


Register with the State Administration of Foreign Exchange for import and export verification.



09

TIPS

Foreign Exchange Management Directory Registration



Register with the State Administration of Foreign Exchange to be included in the foreign exchange management directory.


10

TIPS

Practical Tips



Ensure your company operates within the boundaries of China's Foreign Investment Negative List to avoid restricted industries.


Take advantage of tax incentives provided by China to attract foreign investment.


Register trademarks and patents in China to protect your company's intellectual property and trade secrets.


Familiarize yourself with China's import and export trade policies and tariff regulations to plan your business operations efficiently.






If you have any questions about China visa applications (work visa, company registration and more), please contact our visa consultant Maggie.

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