The retention and storage of export goods filing documents is an important part of international trade, especially crucial for enterprises that hope to apply for export tax rebate (exemption). With the development of technology, the storage methods have become diversified and are no longer limited to traditional paper storage. The following details the storage methods, storage time limits, zero - tax rate situations, consequences of non - compliance, types of filing documents, and relevant policy guidelines of the filing documents.

Diversified storage methods
Modern storage methods for filing documents include paper - based, imaging, or digital. Enterprises can choose suitable storage methods according to their own needs.

Special requirements for paper - based filing documents
If choosing the paper - based storage method, the enterprise needs to specify the storage location in the export tax rebate (exemption) filing document catalog. If the tax authorities need to inspect the imaging or digital filing documents, the enterprise needs to convert them into paper - based form, and affix the enterprise seal and sign a statement.

The sorting and retention time limit of filing documents
Within 15 days after applying for export tax rebate (exemption), the enterprise should sort out the filing documents and create a filing document catalog in chronological order.

Retention period
All filing documents must be properly stored and not be damaged without permission. The retention period is 5 years.

Zero - tax - rate cross - border activities are not subject to filing document management: Taxpayers who conduct zero - tax - rate cross - border taxable activities do not need to follow the filing document management regulations.

Loss of tax rebate (exemption) application qualification: Export goods that have not been filed with documents as required cannot apply for tax rebate (exemption). If they have been declared, a negative declaration must be used to offset the original declaration.

Purchase and sales contracts of export enterprises
Including export contracts,foreign tradecomprehensive service contracts, etc.

Transport documents of export goods
IncludingMaritime Transportationbills of lading, airwayAir Transportationbills, railway bills of lading, etc.

Documents for entrusted customs declaration
Including entrusted customs declaration agreements, agency customs declaration service fee invoices, etc.

Announcements of the State Taxation Administration
Including Announcement No. 9 in 2022, Announcement No. 12 in 2013, etc., which provide specific policy guidelines for enterprises.

Policy interpretation
Enterprises should pay close attention to the latest announcements and policy interpretations of the State Taxation Administration to ensure compliant operations.

The correct retention and storage of export goods filing documents is crucial for enterprises export tax rebate (exemption) applications. Enterprises should choose suitable storage methods according to their own situations and ensure compliance with relevant policy regulations to avoid unnecessary troubles and losses.