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There is no denying that China has become one of the most popular places for business. Below, we provide you with some key information if you are thinking about doing business here.
Importing into China can be very lucrative, and so it is not hard to see why this is something you may be interested in. China’s top imports at present include the likes of electronic equipment, copper, oil, machines, oilseed, organic chemicals, plastics, medical equipment, and vehicles. However, there are many more appealing markets and a lot that needs to be considered before you import to China.
Of course, first, you will need to narrow your market. This includes determining the goods you will offer, where in China you will target, and the customers you want to serve. Extensive research is required. You also need to align yourself with a reputable logistics company like Freo Group. You need to consider logistics in your home country, as well as China.
You will also need to register your business in your home country and acquire a license if necessary. Next, consider how you are going to charge for your service. Most companies dealing with China import goods charge based on retainer or commission. With a retainer model, your client will pay a monthly fee, and they can call on your services whenever needed. With a commission structure, you are paid a percentage of any trade deal you close. Business registration China-based is also important. There are a number of business vehicles to choose from, and it is worth hiring an expert firm with experience in China to determine the best model for you.
Importing goods into China means you will need to align yourself with a reliable and reputable freight forwarder. This is imperative if you are to ensure your goods arrive efficiently and safely. They will deal with cargo insurance, finding cargo space, and handling the logistics of completing the shipping documents. If your goods arrived damaged or they do not arrive on time, it is going to cause huge problems for your business. You also need to set up your business so you can receive and make international payments. This involves transactions across borders and currencies, so consider this carefully.
Last but by no means least, complying with Chinese regulations is of paramount importance when importing goods to China. There are a number of laws that need to be adhered to and documents that need to be provided, depending on what you are importing. You may also need a specific type of license.
Guide To The Free Trade Zones In China
China’s free trade zone options are varied. There are a number of free trade zones that have been developed in the country. This includes Guangzhou, Tianjin, Fujian, and Shanghai. This has changed the way global businesses operate in China. In this section, we will look at some of the free trade zones in further detail, starting with Fujian.
Fujian free trade zone consists of port areas/bonded zone in Xiamen, an experimental zone in Pingtan, and an economic zone/port/bonded zone in Fuzhou. Fujian park aims to develop trade links with Taiwan, which increases imports and exports from further afield.
Perhaps the most significant free trade zone is the free trade zone in Shanghai. This was the first free trade zone in China. The focus of this zone is to modernize current administrative mechanisms and implement pilot policies for the exploration of new governance systems. Essentially, Shanghai is the blueprint for further reform across China.
What about Guangdong? If you are in one of the following industries you should find out more about how to do business in China Guangdong free trade zone: marine transportation, logistics, trading, and professional, financial and legal services.
Typical Compliance Required For Food Imports
China’s food imports have grown dramatically over the past few years. If you are interested in importing food to China, one area you need to take very seriously is compliance. In this section, we will take a look at what will be expected of you.
Firstly, let’s begin with the customs declaration and commodity inspection. There are at least ten forms of legislation to adhere to. This includes Food Safety Law, Competent department: AQSIQ, Supplementary Notice on Supervision of Imported Edible Vegetable Oil, as well as the follow-up legal document on vegetable oil, so both ZHI JIAN SHI HAN [2012] No. 493 and GUO ZHI JIAN SHI HAN [2012] No. 29.
Other legislation includes Regulation Health Certificate Management of Imported Dairy Products, Administrative Measures for Inspection and Quarantine of Imported & Exported Dairy Products, Regulations on Supervision and Administration of Imported & Exported Pre-packaged Food Label Inspection, Measures for Safety Administration of Imported & Exported Foods, and the Law of Import and Export Commodity Inspection of the People’s Republic of China. Finally, any other China food import regulations that have been introduced by national administrative departments need to be considered. This is only the first part of the process, as you will then need to submit a number of documents.
Documents that need to be submitted depend on the type of food being imported. For all types of food, necessary documents include the packing list, invoice, and contract. You must also include a letter of authorization of customs declaration and commodity inspection service for imported foods. Aside from this, it does depend on what you are importing. For example, for wine imports, a certificate of origin is needed.