China Law Key Words · Trade & Customs
Import and Export Compliance
Building a defensible China trade compliance programme—classification discipline, licensing, broker control, and audit packs for importers and exporters.
- Declare accurate filings
- Licence controlled goods
- Audit document packs
- Counsel directory
What import & export compliance covers
Beyond the shipping invoice
Declaration accuracy
HS codes, origin, quantity, and party identity that match commercial reality.
Licences & dual-use
When goods need export/import permissions before they can ship.
Broker & forwarder control
SOPs, power of attorney, and who owns filing errors.
Audits & penalties
How to respond when customs questions prior entries.
Start with these guides
Flagship explainers and practical orientation
China trade and customs law
National trade & customs orientation.
Open guide →ProcessCustoms declaration process
Import and export clearance process themes.
Read →ValueValuation & tariff compliance
When value adjustments drive duty risk.
Read →KeywordCustoms valuation & tariffs
Deep dive keyword hub on valuation.
Open →CBECCBEC customs orientation
Retail import models vs general trade.
Read →ParentTrade & customs hub
Full practice keyword centre.
Open →Compliance programme essentials
Prevent findings before the audit letter
- Assign an importer-of-record owner Accountability cannot sit only with the broker.
- Maintain a classification master file Engineering and trade teams must agree on HS logic.
- Screen licences before booking freight Controlled items need lead time.
- Issue written broker SOPs Standing instructions beat chat messages.
- Reconcile entries to commercial invoices Mismatches are audit gold for authorities.
- Keep multi-year archives Customs lookbacks outlast staff turnover.
Related topics & directories
Continue into neighbouring practice areas
Frequently asked questions
Orientation only—not legal advice
Is the customs broker liable for errors?
Brokers help, but the importer/exporter of record usually remains primarily accountable. Contracts should allocate risk clearly.
What triggers a customs audit?
Valuation outliers, related-party pricing, repeated amendments, or industry campaigns.
How do dual-use rules affect ordinary goods?
Some industrial items have dual-use potential. Screen early rather than at the terminal.
When do we need trade counsel?
Penalty notices, licence strategy, or multi-entity supply chains. Use the import/export lawyer directory.
Need import/export compliance counsel?
Connect with verified trade lawyers or start with the customs guides.
Directory and legal information only—not legal advice. No attorney–client relationship is formed by using this site. Rules and thresholds change; verify current requirements for your facts and jurisdiction.
Guides & articles
Practical writing from counsel and the portal editorial team on this topic