In the fast-paced world of international business, clear communication is essential, especially when working with Chinese partners in the import-export industry. For business professionals learning Chinese, one major challenge is understanding the industry-specific terms that frequently arise in trade discussions. Without this knowledge, negotiations can become unclear, and important details may be misunderstood. To help you overcome these challenges and communicate effectively, let’s break down some of the key import-export terms you’ll need to know.
1. 出口 (Chūkǒu) – Export
Example:
Zhōngguó de chūkǒu shāngpǐn zhǔyào bāokuò diànzǐ chǎnpǐn hé jiādiàn.
中国的出口商品主要包括电子产品和家电。
China’s export goods mainly include electronics and home appliances.
2. 进口 (Jìnkǒu) – Import
Example:
Jìnkǒu de shuǐguǒ zhìliàng hěn hǎo, dànshì jiàgé bǐjiào gāo.
进口的水果质量很好，但是价格比较高。
The imported fruits are of high quality, but the price is relatively high.
3. 关税 (Guānshuì) – Tariff
Example:
Zhèngfǔ juédìng tígāo jìnkǒu qìchē de guānshuì.
政府决定提高进口汽车的关税。
The government decided to increase the tariff on imported cars.
4. 贸易协议 (Màoyì xiéyì) – Trade Agreement
Example:
Zhè xiàng màoyì xiéyì yǒuzhù yú cùjìn guójì jiān de hézuò.
这项贸易协议有助于促进国际间的合作。
This trade agreement helps promote international cooperation.
5. 报关 (Bàoguān) – Customs Declaration
Example:
Wǒmen bìxū zài chūhuò qián wánchéng suǒyǒu de bàoguān shǒuxù.
我们必须在出货前完成所有的报关手续。
We must complete all customs declarations before shipping the goods.
6. 货物运输 (Huòwù yùnshū) – Freight Transportation
Example:
Zhè jiā gōngsī tígōng quánqiú fànwéi de huòwù yùnshū fúwù.
这家公司提供全球范围的货物运输服务。
This company offers global freight transportation services.
7. 国际结算 (Guójì jiésuàn) – International Settlement
Example:
Wǒmen shǐyòng diànhuì fāngshì jìnxíng guójì jiésuàn.
我们使用电汇方式进行国际结算。
We use wire transfer for international settlement.
8. 清关 (Qīngguān) – Customs Clearance
Example:
Wǒmen xūyào quèbǎo suǒyǒu wénjiàn wánzhěng, yǐbiàn shùnlì wánchéng qīngguān guòchéng.
我们需要确保所有文件完整，以便顺利完成清关过程。
We need to make sure all documents are complete to smoothly complete the customs clearance process
9. 离岸价 (Lí àn jià) – Free On Board (FOB)
Example:
Lí àn jià yǐ bāohán dào gǎngkǒu de yùnfèi , qítā fèiyòng yóu mǎi fāng fùzé.
离岸价已包含到港口的运费，其他费用由买方负责。
The FOB price includes the shipping cost to the port; other expenses are the buyer’s responsibility
10. 运费付至 (Yùnfèi fù zhì) – Freight Paid To (FPT)
Example:
Wǒmen de hé tóng tiáokuǎn shì yùnfèi fù zhì Shànghǎi gǎng, mài fāng jiāng zhīfù yùnshū fèiyòng.
我们的合同条款是运费付至上海港，卖方将支付运输费用。Our contract terms are Freight Paid To Shanghai Port, with the seller covering the shipping costs.
Navigating the Complexities of Import-Export with eChineseLearning
In the world of global trade, language is a vital tool for ensuring smooth communication and successful business transactions. By understanding key import-export terms, you’ll be better prepared to navigate the complexities of international trade, especially when working with Chinese partners.
At eChineseLearning, we offer specialized lessons designed to help you master not only the language of business but also the terminology crucial for international trade. Whether you’re looking to communicate effectively with suppliers or negotiate trade agreements, our expert instructors can guide you through the nuances of business Chinese, helping you gain the skills necessary to succeed in the global marketplace.
Take the first step toward mastering business Chinese by signing up for a free trial lesson today, and start enhancing your international business communication skills!
