There is a tendency for inexperienced importers to blame their suppliers for all quality and safety issues that come up. However, in the situation where the buyer works with an OEM or a contract manufacturer, they share some (and usually all) of the responsibility when something goes wrong. It may well be that manufacturing or design defects are the cause. … [Read more...]
Manufacturing Electronics in Taiwan: A China Alternative?
As the US-China trade war intensifies, many American importers are looking for alternatives. They often look at Vietnam, Thailand, Indonesia, India, Mexico, etc. But what about Taiwan? There is sometimes an opportunity to start sourcing products from there, especially in electronics. … [Read more...]
OEM, ODM, Contract Manufacturers: Choose your China Supplier Wisely
By Fabien Gaussorgues Do you prefer to work with an OEM or an ODM? What are their pros and cons? And what is a CM? This is particularly important if, as the importer, you want to develop a product that is different from what is already on the market. The advice in this article is especially suitable for mechanical and/or electrical products. First of all, what do those acronyms mean? Here are simple definitions: Original Design Manufacturer: the supplier provides the design and … [Read more...]