A friend of mine asked me an interesting question: If a buyer wants to ensure he sources quality products from China and avoids any losses, which combination of tools would you recommend to him (max 3)? And how would you rank them from the … [Read more...]
Archives for December 2010
The inspection report is passed but the shipment is full of defects: what happened?
A reader told me about a case "whereby upon arrival in Europe it was found that the majority of consumer products were defective, however the [final random] inspection report by a foreign inspection agency in China did not show any … [Read more...]
Relocation of export manufacturing in China and low-cost Asia
The Li&Fung Research Centre just published an interesting study entitled China Distribution & Trading (h/t to Max Henry). It analyzes the recent trends observed in the sourcing industry. I am reproducing a couple of excepts … [Read more...]
Working with small Chinese manufacturers
If you need to produce in China, will you be better served by a small manufacturer, or by a large one? There is no short answer. It depends on many factors. But one major determinant is the size of your orders relative to their … [Read more...]
Producing a very important order in China: margin vs. risk
This afternoon, I talked with one of my clients. They got a REALLY big order from a new customer they REALLY don't want to upset in any way. They are studying their options: They can play it safe with one of their long-time and reliable … [Read more...]
The Entry Summary Declaration (ENS): what it means for China shippers
The European Union imposed a new regulation for all shipments (coming from all countries except for Norway and Switzerland): the Import Control System (ICS). It comes from the Commission Regulation 1875/2006: Those measures should produce … [Read more...]
Does your China factory sell your products on Taobao.com?
I had an interesting discussion a few days ago with the manager of a factory in China. He has big plans for selling on Taobao.com. Selling what? The same products he manufactures for one of his American customers... His customer orders … [Read more...]
Finding a good factory in china
A few days ago I wrote a post entitled Hidden Commissions Between China Factories And Sourcing Agents, which included these sentences: That’s why I won’t put my hand in the sourcing game. More and more importers are aware of hidden … [Read more...]
Can ISO 26000 be used for factory audits?
Last week, the new ISO 26000 standard was officially published. Here is its brief overview: It is intended to promote common understanding in the field of social responsibility, and to complement other instruments and initiatives for … [Read more...]
Hidden commissions between China factories and sourcing agents
Five years ago, when I was working in Hong Kong, one of my friends (who imports from France) asked me for help. I found a few potential suppliers for her, I arranged some meetings on a Saturday, and I accompanied her in the suppliers' … [Read more...]