Home»Trade Basics» What exactly is an export agency certificate? Key issues that foreign trade enterprises must understand.
Export AgencyWhat exactly is a proof as a legal document?
The Export Agency Certificate is a document filed with the customs authorities.Import and exportThe enterprise issues for the client:Proof of Legal Agency Relationship. According to the latest revision of the "Value-Added Tax Management Measures for Export Goods and Services" by the State Taxation Administration in 2025, this document must include the following core elements:
Complete enterprise information of both parties (including Unified Social Credit Code)
Details of Specifically Authorized Export Goods
Validity period of the agency agreement
Seal of the legal representatives of both parties
What is the fundamental difference between a customs declaration form and an export agency certificate?
ManyForeign tradeTwo key documents that customers often confuse:
Customs declaration form: Customs supervision documents, recording cargo clearance information
Export Agent Certificate: Proof of civil legal relationships, clarifying the authority and responsibilities of agency.
When involving tax refund declarations, both must be used in conjunction.
In cross-border disputes, the power of attorney holds priority in evidentiary effect.
What materials are required to apply for an export agency certificate?
Based on the latest operational guidelines from the General Administration of Customs in 2025, the list of required materials includes:
Notarized original of the agency export agreement.
Copy of the business license of the entrusting party (certification documents required for overseas enterprises)
Purchase and Sale Contract of Goods and Proforma Invoice
Agent's Import and Export Operation License
Electronic Port Operator IC Card
What are the legal risk points in the existence of an export agency certificate?
The three major risks I have summarized from handling international trade dispute cases:
The proxy information is false.: A 2024 case resulted in a $1.2 million loss due to HS code misdeclaration.
The scope of authorization is unclear.: It is necessary to clearly stipulate terms such as payment methods and dispute resolution.
Use of expired documents: Starting from 2025, the validity period of electronic certificates will be shortened to 60 calendar days.
What are the differences in validity period requirements among different countries?
Comparison of the Latest Regulations Among Major Trading Partners:
European Union: 90 days from the date of issuance (including customs clearance time).
ASEAN countries: 120 days (original declaration of origin required)
United States: Electronic versions are accepted indefinitely, while paper versions require annual renewal.
Middle East region: Must be authenticated by the local embassy or consulate.
What additional materials need to be prepared for special industries?
According to the special regulatory requirements for international trade in 2025: