How to verify a foodExport agentagents genuine qualifications?

Latest verification methods for 2025:First, request the counterpart to provide the Foreign Trade Operator Registration Form and Inspection and Quarantine Enterprise Registration Certificate. Verify their customs certification category (recommended to choose AEO-certified enterprises) through the Enterprise Credit Information Publicity System on the General Administration of Customs website. Also request copies of export documents for similar food products from the past 2 years to verify their business authenticity.Inspection of vaccinesInspection Enterprise Registration Certificate. Verify its customs certification category through the Enterprise Credit Information Publicity System on the General Administration of Customs website (recommended to choose AEO-certified enterprises). Also require copies of export documents for the same category of food products in the past 2 years to verify the authenticity of their business.customs clearanceCopy of documents to verify the authenticity of the business.

What mandatory certifications are required for food export? Can the agent assist with processing?

Significant differences in requirements across target markets:

• The European market:Must obtain BRCGS certification (2024 version) and IFS Food Standard
• The American Market:Need to complete FDA registration and FSVP supplier verification
• Japanese market:JAS organic certification and Positive List System compliance documents

Premium agents will provideCertification pre-assessment services, including:

• Production process diagnostics
• Laboratory testing coordination
• Documentation system setup guidance

How to prevent spoilage risks during food transportation?

Recommended cold chain management solutions for 2025:

• Require agents to provide real-time temperature control data interface (API integration)
• Confirm containers are equipped with dual-temperature zone control systems
• Prioritize service providers capable of issuing blockchain traceability bills of lading

Special attentionSouth America and Africa routesport operation conditions, it is recommended to purchasefull transportation insurance(must include loading/unloading process liability).

How to ensure export payment security?

Recommended to adoptstructured payment solutions:

• 30% advance payment (via T/T)
• 60% payment against copy of bill of lading
• 10% quality guarantee deposit (payable 30 days after arrival at port)

Be cautious of agents recommendingDP deferred paymentmethods, as multiple emerging markets in 2025 have foreign exchange control risks. It is recommended to purchase buyers credit insurance through Sinosure, with rates typically ranging from 0.8%-1.2% of the cargo value.

How to avoid market access risks in target countries?

Professional agents should providetriple compliance verification:

• ingredient label review (special attention to allergen labeling)
• additive usage compliance analysis (refer to the target countrys latest positive list)
• religious and cultural compatibility assessment (e.g., Halal certification required for halal food)

Case study: In 2024, a seasoning company suffered losses exceeding 2 million yuan due to EU RASFF notification for failing to label contains sesame ingredients.

VI. FoodExport agentHow should fees be calculated reasonably?

2025 standard service fee structure:

• Basic service fee: 1%-2% of goods value (including document preparation, customs declaration and inspection)
• Additional service fees:
  • Certification agency: 8000-15000 yuan/item
  • Special inspection: 2000 yuan/time
  • Express customs clearance: Actual cost × 1.5 times

Beware of ultra-low price traps, quotes below 0.8% may imply:

• Using export without proper documentation
• False declaration of commodity codes
• Evading mandatory inspection

How to handle quality disputes?

It is recommended to specify in the agency agreementThree-level dispute resolution mechanism:

• Basic level: Designate SGS or Intertek as third-party testing institutions
• Intermediate level: Agree to jurisdiction of China International Economic and Trade Arbitration Commission (CIETAC)
• Advanced level: Apply UNCITRAL Arbitration Rules

Special attention should be paid to retentionSample retention and sealing(Retain for at least 180 days after arrival), seals must be confirmed by both parties signatures.