What isAgency export,Certificate? Why do foreign trade enterprises need it?

2025 export agency certificate application processExport agency certificate () is an important legal document proving the legitimate entrustment relationship between production enterprises and foreign trade agent enterprises. According to the latest 2025 General Administration of Customs Announcement No. 61, this certificate is indispensable in the following scenarios:

• HandledExport tax refundAs a supplementary document to VAT special invoices
• Handling foreign exchange verification and cancellation as well as cross-border settlement operations
• Conducting verification of goods entering and exiting customs special supervision zones
• Determining rights and responsibilities when resolving cross-border trade disputes

What changes are there in the agency export certificate processing flow for 2025?

Compared to the 2023 procedures, three key aspects were optimized in 2025:

• Digitalized declaration: The nationwide unified use of the International Trade "Single Window" system (2025 edition) for online filing.
• Simplification of materials: Elimination of paper contract notarization requirements, replaced with electronic signature authentication
• Efficiency improvement: Approval time reduced from 5 working days to 72 hours

Specific processing steps:

1. Both parties sign the electronic version of the Foreign Trade Agency Agreement
2. Issue VAT special invoices through the Golden Tax Phase III system
3. Upload to the Single Window:
   • Scanned copy of agency agreement (with electronic signature)
   • Export goods detailed list
   • Enterprise credit code certificate
4. Download electronic certificate after customs online verification

What core materials need to be prepared for processing an agent export certificate?

• Basic files:
  • Duplicate business licenses of both principal and agent (must have latest 2025 annual inspection record)
  • Scanned copies of legal representatives ID card (front and back)
• Business documents:
  • Agency agreement with electronic signature (must include product list, settlement method, liability clauses)
  • Proforma Invoice and packing list
• Special materials(Depending on product category):
  • Medical devices: CFDA registration certificate
  • Food products: CIQ hygiene certificate
  • Chemicals: MSDS safety data sheet

Common reasons for processing failures and solutions

According to customs statistics from the first half of 2025, main issues were concentrated in:

• Information inconsistency(38% occurrence):

  Commodity codes (HS Code) in agency agreement not matching customs declaration. Recommended to verify latest codes using the General Administration of Customs 2025 version Import and Export Tariff.

• Signature defects(25% occurrence):

  The electronic signature has not passed CFCA certification. Pre-validation can be performed via the "China Electronic Signature Verification Platform."

• Lack of qualifications(19% occurrence):

  Special commodities missing corresponding industry licenses. Recommended to consult local customs classification center in advance.

11. How to choose a compliant agency service provider?

15. It is recommended to evaluate agency qualifications from the following dimensions:

• Official certification: Whether possessing AEO advanced certification qualification (new 2025 cybersecurity certification requirement)
• Business compatibility: Verify if customs-registered business scope includes target commodity categories
• Risk control: Whether export credit insurance is purchased and foreign exchange risk hedging solutions are provided
• Technical capacity: Capability to interface with ERP systems for real-time synchronization of customs declaration, foreign exchange collection, and tax refund data

Three major impacts brought by 2025 new policies

• Extended traceability period: Customs extended traceability period for agency export business from 3 years to 5 years
• Cross-border data regulation: Require agents to establish a data security system compliant with GB/T 39725-2025
• 36. Green channel: Exports to RCEP member countries can apply for the "Fast Inspection and Release" label, reducing customs clearance time by 40%.