Some of my clients are great at managing their Chinese suppliers and finding quick solutions to any issue that arises. But other importers consistently let factories force their hands--it seems they have no authority at all! For example, … [Read more...]
Archives for September 2010
Quality assurance in China: best practices [free e-book]
I have been writing about quality assurance issues in China for more than 18 months on this blog. It has pushed me to clarify my thinking, to be more curious, and to get in touch with many interesting people. A blog is perfect for … [Read more...]
The aspirations of the new generation of Chinese workers
Several of my clients recently asked me about the shortage of workers and the increases in salaries that most suppliers complain about. Basically, they wonder if this is a seasonal trend. My opinion is that it is a long-term tendency that … [Read more...]
Why do Chinese suppliers change names?
Many importers notice that some of their suppliers change their company names. Many see it as "one of these Chinese things--don't try understand it", and I think it is a mistake. There are basically two situations where the purchaser is … [Read more...]
It sucks to be a first-time buyer in China
If you have never imported directly from China before, you are probably afraid of missing something important. What costs should you plan in your budget? What precautions should you take? You probably have no idea. Most purchasers I have … [Read more...]
Are Chinese factory workers less hardworking?
The Chinese have long been encouraged to be hardworking by their political leaders. They are proud to be able to "chi ku" (eat something bitter) for a long time. It is the sign that an individual will certainly succeed. It is also one of … [Read more...]
Production safety requirements: how to know them?
Can you simply approve a sample, pay a Chinese factory to produce it, and then import the goods into your country? Do you know about the safety requirements for YOUR production? Even China has quality standards for what it imports... … [Read more...]
Frustrations of importers in China: a Gartner study
I just found an article on supplychain.com entitled Buyers find pitfalls of China sourcing (h/t to @MaxHenry). It is based on a survey of importers by a consultancy (Gartner). I listed below the main frustrations that were … [Read more...]
Is there a place for small buyers in China?
Small importers face many challenges in China (see 10 hard truths for small buyers in China). Yet they can't resist the attraction of very low prices--compared with what they have to pay wholesalers in their country. I seriously think many … [Read more...]
When the buyer gives no specifications
One of my friends has a small trading company in Hong Kong. Thanks to his network contacts, he got some steady orders from large institution such as the French police forces and some mail order companies. Most of his customers don't have … [Read more...]