How to resolve medical device import challenges through national general agents?

Analysis of national general agents unique value

In theMedical EquipmentIn the import sector, the national general agency model has become the preferred solution for companies to break through trade barriers. According to the latest customs data for 2025, the customs clearance efficiency for medical device imports through general agency channels has improved by 40% compared to traditional models, with the return rate dropping to one-third of the industry average.

Three-dimensional comparative analysis of channel selection

• Self-operated import model
  • Initial capital requirement of 2 million+ in registered capital
  • Average customs clearance cycle of 28 working days
  • Document error rate reaching 15%
• Regional agency model
  • Limited coverage of regional service networks
  • Cross-regional coordination increasing operational costs by 15%
  • After-sales response time exceeding 72 hours
• National general agency model
  • Zero registered capital threshold
  • National port intelligent matching system
  • 48-hour emergency response mechanism

Five key indicators for selecting a general agent

High-quality general agents should possess:

• Over 10 years of practical experience in the medical device industry
• Service network covering over 80% of national customs districts
• Successful case experience with Class III medical devices
• AEO Advanced Certification
• Complete quality traceability system

Case study: Transformation insights from a listed medical device company

A STAR Market-listed company encountered the following when importing German biopsy needle equipment in 2025:

• Commodity classification disputes causing 3 months of port detention
• Regional agents unable to coordinate multi-port clearance
• After-sales parts supply chain disruption

After switching to a national general agent, the company achieved:

• Establishment of a dedicated commodity pre-classification database
• Dual warehouse inventory model in Yangtze River Delta/Pearl River Delta
• Annual comprehensive cost reduction of 18%

New trends in agency services for 2025

With the implementation of the new Regulations on the Supervision and Administration of Medical Devices, general agency services have shown two upgrade directions:

• Customized compliance solutions
  • Agency services for import medical device registration certificates
  • UDI implementation guidance
• Supply chain finance innovation
  • 90-day credit terms
  • Exchange rate locking service