Electronic Signature

An electronic signature refers to data in electronic form that is used to identify the signatory and indicate their approval of the content of an electronic document. In foreign trade, it is commonly used for signing electronic contracts, order confirmations, proforma invoices, bills of lading, certificates of origin, and other documents, significantly improving cross-border transaction efficiency and reducing the cost of mailing paper documents. Use cases include: confirming orders via email or EDI systems, signing sales contracts online, and submitting electronic documents to customs or banks. Precautions: Different jurisdictions have different legal recognitions of electronic signatures. For example, the EU's eIDAS Regulation, the US ESIGN Act, and China's Electronic Signature Law all recognize reliable electronic signatures, but they may not apply to specific documents such as real estate and wills. Additionally, ensure the signature is traceable, tamper-proof, and agree on dispute resolution methods. Difference from 'digital signature': Electronic signature is a broader concept and can be as simple as typing a name; digital signature is based on cryptography (e.g., PKI) and provides higher security and non-repudiation. Difference from 'electronic seal': Electronic seal usually refers to a visual seal graphic, while electronic signature focuses on the signing act itself. Foreign trade practitioners should prioritize reliable electronic signature solutions that comply with local laws and the requirements of the counterparty.