Inspectors that work in third-party QC firms are checking the shipments of many different importers. A constant challenge is adapting to the quality standard of each client. By default, they are trained on generally-accepted standards in … [Read more...]
Archives for April 2012
How importers get scammed by Chinese suppliers
I have received more and more emails from importers who got scammed by a Chinese supplier. And it seems like I am not the only one to notice this trend. A good article on the China Law Blog (China Scam Alert: The Different Company Bank … [Read more...]
Chinese suppliers’ lack of reliability: 5 tips for importers
You import from China. You sell to customers who want the right quality at the right time. You know that, if you can't deliver, they will go elsewhere. And, on the other hand, your suppliers say "we'll try our best, don't worry". And you … [Read more...]
Trade resources for importers: Global Sources
I am often asked about the best B2B directory for finding good Chinese suppliers. I usually say "check out Global Sources". This company offers many free resources for importers (in addition to the ability to search for suppliers). So … [Read more...]
The trend to buying lower quantities from China
Wholesalers and retail chains make up the vast majority of the products imported from China. They buy large volumes, and then sell the good out of their inventory -- either to several domestic customers, or in their own stores. This is … [Read more...]
Why few Chinese factories are adopting lean principles
A few days ago, I wrote that yes, lean production IS possible in China... But it will take a long time to become as widespread as in Japan. In the 1970s, everyone in the Japanese car industry was wondering what allowed Toyota to resist … [Read more...]
Yes, lean production is possible in China
The Supply Chain Management Review just published a really lame article (Why China Is Not Ready for Lean Projects). The author is Rosemary Coates, an American consultant. I gave only 2 stars out of 5 to her book about China sourcing (see … [Read more...]
How small Chinese manufacturers think
There are constant misunderstandings between some importers and their suppliers. The reason is that most purchasers are not familiar with the way Chinese manufacturers think. And they are incapable of placing themselves in their supplier's … [Read more...]
The buyer’s checklist for the Canton Fair
The first session of the Canton Fair is opening in a few days, and a sourcing agency (the China Performance Group) just published a useful checklist for buyers who are planning to attend it. You can download it here after registering on … [Read more...]
Rising prices in China: 5 solutions for importers
The RMB rate has been going up steadily against the USD (see below), and labor costs have been increasing even faster. When you add the raises in shipping rates and in certain raw materials prices, prices have often increased by more than … [Read more...]