The trading activities of Chinese companies with European countries are subject to specific regulations, among which, we mention the importance of the EORI number or the Economic Operators and Registration Identification code. One of our Chinese lawyers can give full support for EORI registration in 2025 and can explain to you the rights involved.
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Short facts about EORI for Chinese companies in 2025
The EORI number was implemented in July 2009 by the European Commission for better and faster control of the customs activities within the territory of EU, alongside extra security and modernization. This kind of number is assigned to any company with trading activities in EU and it is formed of the VAT number, the country’s code, and other digits. This is the proper way to verify a company and its operations by the customs authorities and administration of the country in which the goods need to enter or exist. An EORI number assigned to a company in China is needed for:
- submitting the Entry Summary Declaration and lodging the Exit Summary Declaration;
- acting as a carrier for the transport of products by sea, air or land within the territory of EU;
- filing customs declarations with the entitled EU authorities;
- filing storage declarations if you have such operations within the EU territory.
With an EORI number, companies can receive notifications and verify information about any legislation modifications imposed by the customs authorities of the EU countries. You can benefit from comprehensive assistance and legal advice when registering the EORI number from our attorneys in China. They can also help you open a WFOE in China, register a trademark or obtain business licenses.
Some business owners in China think they need a new EORI number for each shipment. This is not required. A single EORI number is assigned per company if the application is accepted. As such, a businessman can apply for only one EORI number from the country of origin, regardless of shipment and related activities.
How can I obtain an EORI number in 2025?
Businesses in China can register for EORI if they intend to develop trading activities within the EU territory. One must make an EORI application with the customs authorities of the country he or she wishes to develop trading activities. The company’s documents plus personal identification documents are needed at the time the EORI registration starts. If the application is correct and accepted by the authorities, the EORI number will be issued, mentioning that the EU customs will work closely with the ones in China. Even if the EORI registration is subject to simple and fast formalities, it is recommended to have the support of an experienced team of lawyers in China.
If you decide to import to China, you must apply for an EORI number from the country of origin. Practically, the application is made just like in the case you need an EORI code when importing from any country. Imports in this case imply shipments from outside the European Union.
Is the EORI number the same thing as the VAT number?
No, the EORI and the VAT are two different things. The VAT number is assigned to companies subject to taxation in China particularly to the value added tax. This is an important step in starting a business in China, and that is to register for tax purposes. The VAT number is issued after the incorporation of a company in China. As for the EORI number, this is obtained by Chinese companies wanting to develop trading operations within the EU countries. For VAT registration and for the EORI application, you can talk to our Chinese lawyers.
Can an EORI number be canceled?
Yes, if your company no longer activates on the market, or if it is bankrupt or closed, the EORI number can be annulled. Being a unique number, EORI can be re-assigned if the company gets back on track and restarts its operations. The formalities of canceling or regaining the EORI are not complex, but one should solicit the legal advice and assistance of a lawyer in China.
China’s trading sector in a few lines
China is a solid partner to numerous countries worldwide in terms of import and export. Raw materials, chemicals, vehicles, manufactured goods, food, and drink take the EU road to China, summing up billions of dollars each year. The following numbers and facts highlight a part of the trading sector of China:
- According to recent data provided by the General Administration of Customs in China, the country registered a growth of around 5% in the trading sector in 2024.
- Around USD 5.98 trillion was the total foreign trade volume of China in 2024, a new high record for the country.
- The total exports of China grew by approximately 7.1% while the imports by 2.3% in 2024.
- China is an import and export partner with over 150 countries in the world and from 2024 it holds the first position as the world’s largest trader in goods.
- The bilateral trade with the EU countries grew by approximately 1.6% in 2024.
- On the other hand, the China-US trading operations rose by approximately 4.9% in the same year.
If you would like to know more about how to obtain the EORI number in 2025, feel free to contact our law firm in China. Plus, you can solicit our support if interested in immigration to China. We assist foreigners in getting residency in China. Moreover, our team can manage the procedures linked to citizenship in China.