Zhanjiang enterprises reap benefits of free trade policies

Zhanjiang Entry-Exit Inspection and Quarantine Bureau issued a record high of 12,921 certificates of origin valued at $888 million in 2017, a year-on-year increase of 14.66 and 18.45 percent respectively.

Among them, there were 4,002 preferential certificates of origin valued at $175 million. These certificates allowed Zhanjiang exports to enjoy preferential tariffs in foreign countries guaranteed by bilateral free trade agreements.

The China-ASEAN Free Trade Area has been the most dynamic, with 2,628 preferential certificates of origin issued by the bureau and $10-million tariffs exempted by ASEAN trade partners. Exports mainly consisted of mechanical, plastic, paper and aquatic products.

With Zhanjiang enterprises' expanding into the South American market, the China-Chile Free Trade Area has become an incentive for growth as 141 preferential certificates of origin worth around $12.74 million were issued for tariff exemptions over the past year.

China has so far signed 16 free trade agreements, involving 26 countries and regions across the world. The implementation of the free trade area strategy has become a significant impetus to the country's foreign trade.

Locally, the bureau has been promoting the use of electronic certificates of origin, which are integrated into the provincial certificates of origin system. It has also launched tailor-made services in an effort to make sure every qualified enterprise makes the most of the policy.