Export Procedures for Footwear

Exporting footwear is a significant industry that contributes greatly to the economy of many countries, including Vietnam. To ensure a smooth and effective export process, companies need to adhere to a comprehensive and precise procedure. Below is a detailed and professional guide on the export procedures for footwear:

1. Business Registration and Export License

1. Business Registration: Companies must register their business and obtain a business registration certificate from the relevant government authorities.
2. Export License: If footwear is classified as a special product or falls under specific regulatory categories, companies need to obtain an export license from the Ministry of Industry and Trade or other relevant authorities.

2. Product Quality Inspection

1. Raw Materials and Production Inspection: Ensure that the raw materials used meet quality standards and that the production process complies with safety and quality regulations.
2. Quality Certification: Products must be inspected by independent certification bodies to ensure they meet national or international standards.
3. Certificates and Relevant Documents:
   • Certificate of Origin (C/O): Proves that the goods are produced in Vietnam.
   • Certificate of Quality (CQ): Certifies that the product meets quality standards.

3. Packaging and Labeling

1. Packaging: Footwear must be packaged securely to ensure safety during transportation.
2. Labeling: Labels on the products must be clear and provide complete information, including:
   • Product name
   • Manufacturer
   • Place of production
   • Usage instructions
   • Other required information according to the importing country’s regulations.

4. Preparing Export Documentation

Export documentation includes:

1. Sale Contract: Agreement between the seller and buyer outlining the terms of sale.
2. Commercial Invoice: Details the value of the goods and payment terms.
3. Packing List: Details the packaging and quantity of the goods.
4. Bill of Lading: Transport document issued by the carrier.
5. Certificate of Origin: Certifies the goods are produced in the exporting country.
6. Other Documents: As required by the importing country (e.g., quarantine certificates, product safety certificates, import permits).

5. Customs Declaration

1. Electronic Customs Declaration: Submit export information and documentation electronically through the customs system.
2. Submit Customs Documentation: After electronic declaration, submit relevant documents to the customs authorities for review and approval.
3. Customs Fees: Pay any applicable customs fees.

6. Inspection and Appraisal of Goods

1. Physical Inspection: Customs authorities will physically inspect the shipment to ensure it matches the declaration.
2. Quality Appraisal: If necessary, the goods may undergo additional quality appraisal.
3. Customs Clearance: If the goods meet requirements, customs will grant clearance for export.

7. Transportation and Delivery

1. Domestic Transportation: Arrange for the transportation of goods from the warehouse to the port or airport.
2. International Transportation: Ensure the goods are transported to the importing country safely and on time.
3. Cargo Insurance: Consider purchasing cargo insurance to protect the shipment during transportation.

8. Payment and Completion of Transaction

1. Payment: Perform payment according to the terms specified in the sale contract.
2. Receipt Confirmation: The foreign partner confirms receipt of the goods and checks their quality.
3. Transaction Completion: Conclude the transaction once payment is received and no complaints about quality are reported.

9. Record Keeping

1. Document Retention: Companies need to retain export records for the legally required period to facilitate future inspections and audits.
2. Export Reporting: Report export activities periodically to relevant government authorities if required.

Relevant Regulations and Guidelines

To ensure compliance, companies should refer to the following legal documents:

1. Commercial Law: Law No. 36/2005/QH11 regulating commercial activities, including export.

2. Decree No. 69/2018/ND-CP: Regulates state management of export and import activities.

3. Circular No. 38/2015/TT-BTC: Governs customs procedures for export and import goods.

4. Circular No. 39/2018/TT-BTC: Amendments to Circular No. 38/2015/TT-BTC.

5. Circular No. 30/2012/TT-BCT: Regulations on quality inspection of export and import goods.

6. Decree No. 132/2008/ND-CP: Regulations on product quality.

7. Circular No. 11/2011/TT-BCT: Export licensing regulations for specific goods.

8. Decree No. 08/2015/ND-CP: Customs management and procedures for export and import goods.

9. Decree No. 59/2018/ND-CP: Amendments to Decree No. 08/2015/ND-CP.

10. Circular No. 12/2016/TT-BCT: Regulations on product labeling.

11. Circular No. 25/2018/TT-BCT: Standards and technical regulations for export goods.

12. Decree No. 15/2018/ND-CP: Management of product quality and safety.

13. Circular No. 13/2012/TT-BCT: Certificate of Origin (C/O) regulations.

14. Circular No. 39/2014/TT-BTC: Regulations on invoices and documents in export transactions.

For the most current and detailed regulations, companies should regularly check official sources and consult with legal or export professionals.