In foreign trade, 'Existing Customer' refers to a buyer or partner who has already established a formal business relationship with the company and has actual transaction records, as distinguished from a prospective customer or a new customer. This term is commonly used in customer relationship management, sales strategy formulation, and credit policies, for example, granting existing customers more favorable payment terms, priority supply, or discounts. Usage scenarios include: distinguishing between new and old customers when quoting, analyzing customer loyalty, and designing repurchase incentive plans. Note: the time definition of 'existing' should be clarified (e.g., orders within the past 12 months) to avoid confusion with 'active customer'; at the same time, customer value should be regularly assessed to prevent ignoring current risks based only on historical transactions. Compared with 'old customer', 'existing customer' emphasizes that business dealings still currently exist, rather than merely a long cooperation period. In foreign trade correspondence, accurate use of this term helps demonstrate professionalism and customer tiered management.
📝 Examples
1. For existing customers, we offer a 5% loyalty discount and can accept payment by 60-day usance L/C. (Note: Distinguish between new and old customers in the quotation and give existing customers more favorable payment terms.)
2. Since your company is our existing customer, the sample fee will be fully waived for this order, and you only need to bear the freight. (Note: Use existing customer status to provide sample concessions in order to encourage repeat orders.)
💡 Foreign Trade Tips
Foreign trade terms are the foundation of international business communication
Trade practices may vary slightly by country; pay attention when using them
When using terms in contracts, specify the applicable version (e.g., Incoterms 2020)
For unfamiliar terms, use GlobalSync's multilingual email helper to confirm with your partner