Aug 23 marks the first anniversary of the "two-step declaration" reform in the China (Zhejiang) Pilot Free Trade Zone. [Photo/WeChat account: china-zjftz]

A total of 105 companies had benefited from an import declaration reform in the China (Zhejiang) Pilot Free Trade Zone (FTZ) as of Aug 23, local media reported on Aug 25.

Aug 23 marks the first anniversary of the "two-step declaration" reform in the pilot FTZ, an important measure meant to streamline administrative services and optimize the business environment.

To date, 12.91 million metric tons of cargos worth 36 billion yuan ($5.23 billion) have been imported via Zhoushan Port under the "two-step declaration" system.

Companies used to be able to pick up their imported goods after customs verified all 105 papers when filing an import declaration. Now, thanks to the reform, companies just need to fill in nine papers and receive a risk screening for entry into China before picking up their goods. Other materials can then be completed within 14 days.

Zhang Zhonghao, customs manager of Zhoushan COSCO Shipping Logistics Co Ltd, said that the reform has saved the company a lot of time and money.

According to the latest data, Zhoushan COSCO has imported 2.08 million tons of cargo worth 4.17 billion yuan over the past year via the "two-step declaration" system, which saved the company 300,000 yuan.

Both the "two-step declaration" and previous declaration systems are now available to all companies at Zhoushan Port.