Export Procedures for Granite Stone by IPO Logistics

Introduction to Granite Export and the Importance of Standardized Procedures

Vietnam is known as one of the countries with rich natural stone resources, especially granite, a high-quality stone with durability and aesthetic appeal, widely used in construction and interior decoration. The export of granite not only brings significant economic benefits but also helps elevate Vietnam’s position in the global trade map. To ensure a smooth export process, adherence to strict legal requirements is essential. IPO Logistics, with its robust experience and expertise, is a reliable partner for executing this process.

In this article, we will detail the steps involved in exporting granite, from preparing documents to the customs clearance process and related legal issues.

1. Overview of the Granite Export Market and Opportunities from International Markets

Vietnam’s granite has high quality, diverse colors, and competitive prices. This has enabled domestic enterprises to expand their markets to countries like the USA, Japan, the EU, and some Middle Eastern countries. The demand for granite in construction and interior decoration in these markets is substantial, opening growth opportunities for Vietnam’s stone industry.

1.1 Economic Benefits of Granite Export

Exporting granite not only provides a significant income source but also offers various other benefits:

• Job Creation:

The stone extraction and processing industry creates jobs for thousands of workers, from quarry workers to craftsmen and auxiliary services.

• GDP Growth:

The granite export sector positively contributes to the national GDP growth, promoting the development of industry and trade.

• Technology Innovation:

To meet international market quality requirements, businesses have heavily invested in processing technology, thereby improving product quality and competitiveness.

1.2 Development Potential of the Granite Export Industry

Vietnam possesses abundant granite resources, particularly high-quality granite. With systematic investment and supportive government policies, the granite export sector has significant development potential, enabling Vietnamese businesses to assert their position in the global market.

2. Export Process for Granite by IPO Logistics

The granite export process must comply with stringent regulations, from document preparation and export registration to transportation and customs clearance. IPO Logistics ensures that this entire process is executed professionally, promptly, and accurately.

2.1 Document Preparation for Export

The first step in the granite export process is to prepare all necessary documents and certificates according to legal requirements. This documentation is essential for ensuring that goods can be cleared through customs and exported smoothly.

2.1.1 Required Documents for Export

1. Commercial Invoice: This is the most critical document in export transactions, detailing information about the seller, buyer, product description (type of stone, size, quantity, unit price), delivery conditions (FOB, CIF, EXW…), and total contract value.
2. Packing List: This document describes how the product is packaged, including the dimensions, weight of each package, and total weight. This information helps customs authorities and transportation units control the loading and unloading process.
3. Certificate of Origin: This certification, issued by a competent authority, confirms that the product is extracted and processed in Vietnam to enjoy tariff benefits under free trade agreements that Vietnam participates in.
4. Quality Certificate: Exported granite must meet international quality standards. This certificate is issued by authorized inspection organizations and confirms the quality, durability, and other factors of the stone.
5. Extraction and Processing License: To demonstrate that the granite is extracted and processed legally, businesses need to provide the extraction license issued by the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment.
6. Environmental Protection Certification: According to regulations, companies extracting stone must meet environmental protection standards and obtain this certification.

2.2 Export Registration and License Application

After completing the documentation, businesses need to register with state management authorities to obtain an export license. This step requires accuracy and compliance with legal regulations, as any errors in the registration process can lead to delays or denial of export.

2.2.1 Export Registration Process

1. Submit Documents to Customs Office: Businesses must submit the export documentation to the Customs Office at the location of their business registration. The file includes all relevant documents, from the commercial invoice to the certificate of origin and quality certification.
2. Review and Approval: The customs authorities will review the documents to ensure that all papers are valid. This process may take 1-3 working days, depending on the volume of the file and the regulations of each authority.
3. Receive Export License: Once the documentation is approved, the business will receive an export license, allowing the granite products to be exported to international markets.

2.3 Transportation of Goods

After obtaining the export license, the next step is to transport the goods from the processing facility to the export port. Transporting granite requires precision and care to ensure that the product is not damaged during transit.

2.3.1 Choosing the Mode of Transport

• Sea Transportation: This is the most common and effective method for exporting granite, given the large volume and size of the stones. Transporting by sea saves costs and ensures the safety of goods.
• Air Transportation: For high-value orders or those requiring rapid delivery, air transport can also be a viable option. However, costs will be higher than sea transport.

2.4 Customs Procedures and Goods Clearance

Customs procedures are the final important step before goods are exported. This is the process where businesses need to accurately declare information about the goods and pay applicable taxes and fees.

2.4.1 Steps for Customs Procedures

• Electronic Customs Declaration:

Businesses need to use the electronic customs system (VNACCS/VCIS) to declare information about the exported shipment, including quantity, weight, HS code, and value of the goods.

• Goods Inspection:

Customs authorities may require a physical inspection of the goods to ensure that the declared information matches the actual products. This inspection can occur at the port or at the business’s warehouse.

• Payment of Export Tax:

Depending on regulations, businesses must pay export taxes (if applicable) before the goods are allowed to leave Vietnam.

• Clearance of Goods:

After completing all procedures and paying the necessary taxes, customs authorities will grant clearance for the goods to be exported.

2.5 Shipment and Payment

Once the goods are cleared, businesses can proceed to ship the goods and settle payments with their partners. Payments are typically made using common methods such as L/C (Letter of Credit), T/T (Telegraphic Transfer), or D/P (Documents against Payment).

2.5.1 Considerations for Payment and Contracts

• International Trade Contract: Should be drafted carefully, ensuring that terms related to price, delivery conditions, and payment are clearly defined to avoid disputes later.
• Safe Payment Methods: Businesses need to choose the most suitable and secure payment methods to avoid international payment risks.

3. Legal Issues to Consider

3.1 Compliance with Export and Customs Laws

According to Vietnamese laws, all exported goods, including granite, must comply with the regulations of the Commercial Law, Customs Law, and related legal documents. Violations of these regulations may lead to the detention of goods, administrative penalties, or rejection of export.

3.2 Certifications and International Standards

To ensure that granite products meet international standards, businesses must provide all necessary certificates regarding quality, origin, and environmental protection. This not only facilitates acceptance of products in international markets but also helps businesses avoid legal risks when products do not meet standards.

3.3 Legal Responsibilities in Trade Contracts

Businesses need to understand the legal responsibilities outlined in international trade contracts, including terms related to delivery, payment, and product warranties. Failure to fulfill contract obligations may expose businesses to legal issues such as litigation or compensation claims.

4. Conclusion

The process of exporting granite requires not only precision and compliance with the law but also close cooperation between businesses and regulatory authorities. With expertise and experience in logistics and export-import activities, IPO Logistics commits to helping businesses execute this process professionally, efficiently, and in accordance with legal regulations.