China Sourcing Ultimate Guide: How to Find Reliable Suppliers & Import Products Safely | BSA Group
Complete 2025 Edition

China Sourcing
Ultimate Guide

Everything you need to know about finding reliable suppliers, verifying factories, controlling quality, and importing products safely from China.

85% of Global Sourcing
$2.5T Annual Exports
10M+ Manufacturers
Chapter 01

Why Source from China

China has established itself as the world’s manufacturing powerhouse, accounting for approximately 28% of global manufacturing output. For businesses seeking competitive advantages in production costs, scalability, and product variety, China remains the undisputed leader in global sourcing.

The country’s manufacturing ecosystem has evolved far beyond simple cost arbitrage. Today, Chinese suppliers offer sophisticated production capabilities, rapid prototyping, extensive supply chain networks, and the ability to scale from small sample orders to massive production runs within remarkably short timeframes.

28%

Global Manufacturing Output

$3.6T

Annual Export Value

30-70%

Cost Savings Potential

10M+

Active Manufacturers

Key Advantages of Sourcing from China

💰

Competitive Pricing

Lower labor costs, established infrastructure, and economies of scale translate to 30-70% savings compared to domestic manufacturing in most Western countries.

🏭

Manufacturing Capacity

Unmatched production capacity with the ability to handle orders ranging from 100 pieces to millions, with remarkably fast turnaround times.

🔧

Product Diversity

Virtually every product category is manufactured in China, from electronics and textiles to machinery and consumer goods, offering unparalleled variety.

Supply Chain Ecosystem

Complete supply chain integration means raw materials, components, and finished products can all be sourced within concentrated industrial regions.

🚀

Innovation & Technology

Increasing investment in R&D and advanced manufacturing technologies, including automation, AI-driven quality control, and Industry 4.0 capabilities.

📈

Scalability

Flexible production capabilities allow businesses to start small, test markets, and scale rapidly without significant capital investment in facilities.

💡 Key Insight

While cost savings remain significant, the most successful importers leverage China’s manufacturing ecosystem for speed-to-market advantages, product customization capabilities, and supply chain resilience—not just price.

Chapter 02

Common Risks & How to Avoid Them

Sourcing from China offers tremendous opportunities, but it also comes with inherent risks that can derail even well-planned procurement strategies. Understanding these risks—and implementing systematic safeguards—is essential for protecting your investment and ensuring successful outcomes.

The good news is that most sourcing failures are preventable with proper due diligence, clear communication, and appropriate quality control measures throughout the production process.

Major Risk Categories

Risk CategoryCommon IssuesMitigation Strategy
Supplier FraudFake companies, misrepresented capabilities, scam operationsComprehensive verification, factory audits, background checks
Quality ProblemsSubstandard materials, poor workmanship, specification deviationsThird-party inspections, detailed specifications, production monitoring
Communication GapsLanguage barriers, cultural differences, unclear expectationsWritten specifications, visual references, local sourcing agents
Delivery DelaysProduction setbacks, logistics issues, capacity constraintsBuffer time planning, production monitoring, alternative suppliers
IP TheftDesign copying, unauthorized production, trademark infringementNDA agreements, trademark registration, supplier vetting
Payment LossWire fraud, non-delivery after payment, contract disputesEscrow services, payment staging, verified bank accounts
⚠️ Warning Signs to Watch For

Unusually low prices, pressure for full upfront payment, reluctance to provide factory addresses or allow visits, inconsistent communication, new Alibaba accounts with limited history, and inability to provide references or certifications on request.

The 5-Layer Protection Framework

Pre-Engagement Verification

Verify supplier legitimacy through business license checks, factory audits, and background investigations before any significant engagement or payment.

Contractual Protection

Establish clear contracts with detailed specifications, quality standards, delivery terms, penalty clauses, and dispute resolution mechanisms.

Production Monitoring

Implement regular production checkpoints, including during-production inspections and milestone verification throughout the manufacturing process.

Quality Assurance

Conduct pre-shipment inspections, lab testing for compliance, and container loading supervision before goods leave the factory.

Payment Staging

Structure payments to maintain leverage—typically 30% deposit, 70% after inspection approval—and use secure payment channels with verification.

Chapter 03

Supplier Types in China

Understanding the different types of suppliers in China is crucial for making informed sourcing decisions. Each supplier type offers distinct advantages and trade-offs that can significantly impact your cost structure, quality control capabilities, and overall sourcing experience.

Direct Manufacturers (工厂)

Direct manufacturers, or “gongchang” in Chinese, are factories that produce goods themselves. They own the production facilities, equipment, and employ the workers who make your products. Working directly with factories typically offers the best pricing but requires more hands-on management.

  • Best pricing – Eliminates middleman markups, typically 10-30% lower than trading companies
  • Production control – Direct communication on specifications, materials, and production schedules
  • Quality oversight – Ability to conduct factory audits and production monitoring on-site
  • Customization – Greater flexibility for custom designs and product modifications
  • Challenges – Often limited product range, may require higher MOQs, English capability varies

Trading Companies (贸易公司)

Trading companies act as intermediaries between foreign buyers and Chinese factories. They source from multiple manufacturers and handle export procedures, often providing more comprehensive service packages for buyers who prefer convenience over maximum cost savings.

  • One-stop sourcing – Access to multiple product categories through a single contact
  • Export expertise – Experienced with international trade, documentation, and shipping
  • Lower MOQs – Often more flexible on minimum order quantities by consolidating from multiple buyers
  • Language & communication – Generally stronger English skills and Western business practices
  • Trade-off – 10-30% markup over factory prices, less direct production visibility

Wholesale Markets

China’s wholesale markets—most notably Yiwu International Trade City—offer immediate access to hundreds of thousands of products from thousands of vendors. These markets are ideal for small quantities, product discovery, and buyers who want to see and touch products before ordering.

  • Low MOQs – Many vendors sell in small quantities, even single pieces for sampling
  • Immediate availability – Ready-stock products for quick shipment
  • Product discovery – Physical inspection of massive product variety in one location
  • Ideal for – Small businesses, e-commerce sellers, market testing, gift/novelty items
  • Limitations – Less customization, quality varies widely, limited production capacity for large orders
FactorManufacturerTrading CompanyWholesale Market
Price LevelLowestMedium (+10-30%)Medium-High
MOQMedium-HighFlexibleVery Low
CustomizationHighMediumLimited
Quality ControlDirect accessThrough intermediarySpot-check only
Best ForLarge orders, custom productsMulti-category, service-orientedSmall quantities, ready stock
Chapter 04

How to Find Suppliers

Finding the right supplier is arguably the most critical step in successful China sourcing. The approach you choose depends on your order volume, product complexity, timeline, and willingness to invest time in the supplier search process. Here are the primary channels for finding Chinese suppliers.

Alibaba.com

Alibaba remains the world’s largest B2B e-commerce platform, connecting international buyers with millions of Chinese suppliers. It’s the most accessible starting point for new importers, offering search tools, communication features, and trade assurance programs.

💡 Alibaba Pro Tips

Look for Gold Suppliers with 5+ years on the platform, Verified Supplier badges, Trade Assurance coverage, and transaction history. Request video calls to see the factory, and always ask for references from buyers in your country.

  • Search using specific product keywords, filter by supplier type (manufacturer vs. trading company)
  • Check supplier response rate and average response time as indicators of professionalism
  • Review company profiles for export markets, certifications, and production capacity
  • Use Trade Assurance for payment protection on qualifying orders
  • Request samples before committing to production orders

1688.com

1688 is Alibaba’s Chinese-language domestic wholesale platform. It typically offers lower prices than Alibaba.com because suppliers don’t factor in international service overhead. However, it requires Chinese language skills or a sourcing agent to navigate effectively.

  • Price advantage – Often 20-40% lower than Alibaba.com for the same products
  • Larger supplier pool – Many factories not listed on Alibaba.com are active on 1688
  • Challenges – Chinese language only, domestic payment systems, no export services
  • Best approach – Work with a sourcing agent who can navigate, negotiate, and consolidate orders

Trade Shows & Exhibitions

Trade shows offer unparalleled opportunities to meet suppliers face-to-face, evaluate product quality firsthand, and build relationships. The Canton Fair (China Import and Export Fair) in Guangzhou is the largest, attracting over 25,000 exhibitors and 200,000 buyers annually.

🏛️

Canton Fair

Held twice yearly in Guangzhou (April & October). Three phases covering all product categories. The gold standard for China sourcing events.

🔌

Global Sources Electronics

Hong Kong-based shows focusing on electronics, components, and mobile accessories. Excellent for tech-focused sourcing.

🏠

CIFF (China Furniture Fair)

Asia’s largest furniture exhibition held in Guangzhou and Shanghai. Essential for home goods and furniture importers.

Yiwu International Trade City

The Yiwu market is the world’s largest wholesale market, spanning 5.5 million square meters with over 75,000 booths selling more than 2 million different products. It’s particularly strong for consumer goods, gifts, home décor, and accessories.

Unlike trade shows, Yiwu is a permanent market open year-round. Buyers can source ready-made products in smaller quantities, making it ideal for e-commerce sellers, small retailers, and those testing new product lines.

Chapter 05

How to Verify Suppliers

Supplier verification is your first line of defense against fraud, quality problems, and failed deliveries. A thorough verification process examines the supplier’s legal status, production capabilities, financial health, and track record before you commit any significant investment.

The verification process should be proportional to your order value and risk tolerance. For small trial orders, basic online verification may suffice. For larger commitments or long-term partnerships, comprehensive on-site audits are strongly recommended.

Background Check Components

Business License Verification

Verify the company’s legal registration through China’s National Enterprise Credit Information Publicity System. Confirm the registered name, address, capital, business scope, and legal representative match what the supplier claims.

Export License & Qualifications

Confirm the supplier has valid export licenses and any industry-specific certifications required for your product category (ISO, CE, FDA registration, etc.).

Credit & Legal Records

Check for any outstanding lawsuits, court judgments, tax violations, or inclusion on government blacklists. Credit reports can reveal financial stability and payment history.

Reference Checks

Request and contact references from other international buyers. Ask specific questions about quality consistency, communication, delivery reliability, and problem resolution.

Factory Audit Process

A professional factory audit provides on-site verification of the supplier’s actual production capabilities, quality management systems, working conditions, and operational practices. This goes far beyond what can be verified remotely.

🏭

Facility Assessment

Verification of factory location, size, equipment, production lines, and actual manufacturing capacity versus claimed capacity.

📊

Quality Systems

Review of quality control procedures, inspection equipment, testing capabilities, and documentation practices.

👥

Social Compliance

Assessment of working conditions, labor practices, safety protocols, and environmental compliance per international standards.

📋

Production Capability

Evaluation of workforce skills, production planning, raw material management, and ability to meet your specific requirements.

💡 Verification Investment

Professional supplier verification typically costs $200-500 for background checks and $300-800 for on-site factory audits. This investment is minimal compared to the potential losses from working with an unverified or fraudulent supplier—which can easily reach tens of thousands of dollars.

Chapter 06

Samples & Order Process

The sample evaluation stage is critical for validating product quality, supplier capability, and production feasibility before committing to larger orders. A systematic approach to sampling helps prevent costly mistakes and establishes clear quality benchmarks for production.

Types of Samples

Sample TypePurposeTypical Cost
Existing Product SampleEvaluate current production quality for off-the-shelf itemsProduct cost + shipping
Custom SamplePrototype for new designs, custom specifications, or modifications$50-500+ depending on complexity
Pre-Production Sample (PPS)Final approval sample made with actual production materials and processesOften included in order setup
Golden SampleSealed reference sample kept as quality benchmark throughout productionPart of production sample set

The Complete Order Process

Initial Inquiry & Quotation

Submit detailed product requirements including specifications, target quantity, packaging needs, and delivery timeline. Request quotes from 3-5 suppliers for comparison.

Sample Order & Evaluation

Order samples from shortlisted suppliers. Evaluate quality, accuracy to specifications, packaging, and compare against your requirements and competitor products.

Negotiation & Contract

Negotiate pricing, payment terms, delivery schedule, and quality standards. Document all agreements in a formal purchase contract or proforma invoice.

Pre-Production Approval

Review and approve pre-production samples made with actual production materials. This is your last opportunity to request changes before mass production begins.

Production & Monitoring

Production begins after deposit payment. Schedule during-production inspections at 20-30% completion to catch issues early.

Pre-Shipment Inspection

Conduct final quality inspection when 80-100% of production is complete and at least 80% is packed. This determines whether goods are ready for shipment.

Final Payment & Shipping

Release balance payment after inspection approval. Coordinate shipping, documentation, and customs clearance for delivery to your destination.

💡 Sample Evaluation Checklist

Check dimensions against specifications, material quality and weight, workmanship and finish, functionality testing, packaging durability, labeling accuracy, and compare with the approved sample throughout production. Document everything with photos.

Chapter 07

Quality Control Methods

Quality control is the backbone of successful importing. Without systematic QC processes, you’re essentially gambling that your supplier will deliver products that meet your standards. Professional quality control creates checkpoints throughout the production cycle to identify and correct problems before they become expensive mistakes.

The cost of quality control—typically 1-3% of order value—is a fraction of the cost of receiving defective goods, processing returns, losing customers, or facing product liability issues.

Types of Quality Inspections

🔬

Pre-Production Inspection (PPI)

Conducted before production begins. Verifies raw materials, components, and production setup match specifications. Prevents problems at the source.

⚙️

During Production Inspection (DPI)

Performed when 20-30% of production is complete. Catches quality issues, workmanship problems, or specification deviations while correction is still possible.

📦

Pre-Shipment Inspection (PSI)

Final inspection when 80-100% complete. Uses statistical sampling (AQL) to determine if the batch meets quality standards before shipment.

🚛

Container Loading Check (CLC)

Supervises the loading process to ensure correct quantities, proper handling, and secure loading that prevents damage during transit.

AQL Sampling Standards

Acceptable Quality Level (AQL) is the international standard for statistical sampling in quality inspection. Rather than checking every unit, inspectors examine a representative sample to determine whether the entire batch is acceptable.

AQL LevelDefect RateBest For
AQL 0.65Very strict (0.65%)High-value items, safety products, premium brands
AQL 1.0Strict (1.0%)Electronics, precision products, quality-conscious brands
AQL 1.5Moderate (1.5%)General consumer products, standard quality expectations
AQL 2.5Standard (2.5%)Commodity items, high-volume low-margin products
AQL 4.0Relaxed (4.0%)Low-cost items where some defects are acceptable

Lab Testing & Certification

Beyond visual inspection, many products require laboratory testing to verify safety, performance, or regulatory compliance. These tests are typically performed by accredited third-party laboratories.

  • CE Marking – Required for products sold in the European Union
  • FCC Certification – Required for electronic devices sold in the United States
  • ASTM Standards – American standards for materials, products, and systems
  • ISO Certification – International quality management and product standards
  • RoHS Testing – Restriction of hazardous substances in electronics
  • CPSC Compliance – Consumer Product Safety Commission requirements for US market
Chapter 08

Shipping, Logistics & Customs

Getting your products from a Chinese factory to your warehouse involves navigating a complex web of shipping options, documentation requirements, and customs procedures. Understanding the logistics landscape helps you choose the most cost-effective and reliable shipping method for your needs.

Shipping Methods Compared

MethodTransit TimeCost LevelBest For
Sea Freight (FCL)25-45 daysLowestLarge volumes, full containers (20GP/40GP)
Sea Freight (LCL)30-50 daysLow-MediumSmaller shipments sharing container space
Rail Freight15-20 daysMediumEurope-bound, balance of speed and cost
Air Freight5-10 daysHighUrgent shipments, high-value goods
Express Courier3-7 daysHighestSamples, small packages, urgent items

Incoterms Explained

Incoterms (International Commercial Terms) define who is responsible for shipping costs, risks, and customs clearance at each point in the journey. Understanding these terms is essential for accurate cost calculation and clear supplier agreements.

🏭

EXW (Ex Works)

Buyer takes all responsibility from the factory door. Lowest quoted price but buyer handles all logistics and risk.

🚢

FOB (Free On Board)

Seller delivers to port and loads on vessel. Buyer pays freight and insurance from that point. Most common for sea freight.

🌊

CIF (Cost, Insurance, Freight)

Seller pays freight and insurance to destination port. Buyer handles import clearance and delivery from port.

🏠

DDP (Delivered Duty Paid)

Seller handles everything to your door including import duties. Highest quoted price but simplest for buyer.

Customs Clearance Basics

Every shipment entering your country must clear customs, which involves documentation verification, duty assessment, and potentially physical inspection. Proper preparation prevents costly delays and penalties.

  • Commercial Invoice – Detailed description of goods, quantities, values, and transaction terms
  • Packing List – Breakdown of cartons, weights, and contents
  • Bill of Lading (B/L) – Shipping contract and proof of shipment
  • Certificate of Origin – Documents where goods were manufactured
  • HS Code Classification – Correct tariff classification determines duty rates
  • Compliance Certificates – Product-specific certifications required for import
⚠️ Customs Red Flags

Undervalued invoices, incorrect HS codes, missing certificates, and inconsistent documentation trigger customs scrutiny and can result in delays, penalties, or shipment seizure. Always ensure documentation accuracy and compliance.

Chapter 09

Payment Methods & Risk Control

Payment structure is one of the most critical decisions in China sourcing. Your payment method and timing directly impact your financial risk exposure. Understanding the options and their trade-offs helps you balance supplier relationships with asset protection.

Common Payment Methods

MethodBuyer RiskSupplier RiskBest For
T/T (Wire Transfer)Medium-HighLowMost common. Use 30/70 split with inspection
Letter of Credit (L/C)LowLowLarge orders, new suppliers, high value
Trade AssuranceLowLowAlibaba orders with platform protection
PayPalLowHighSamples, small orders. Limited supplier acceptance
Western UnionVery HighVery LowAvoid for business transactions
D/P (Documents Against Payment)MediumMediumEstablished relationships, inspection-verified orders

Recommended Payment Structure

💡 Standard Payment Split

30% Deposit upon order confirmation / 70% Balance after pre-shipment inspection approval. This structure provides working capital for the supplier while protecting the buyer’s interests. Never pay 100% upfront, and always condition final payment on inspection results.

  • Verify bank account details directly with supplier via video call before transferring funds
  • Use SWIFT transfers to verified company accounts, not personal accounts
  • Keep deposit percentages as low as possible while maintaining supplier cooperation
  • Condition balance payment on successful third-party inspection
  • For first orders with new suppliers, consider Letter of Credit for additional protection
  • Document all payment terms in formal purchase contracts

Wire Fraud Prevention

Payment fraud—particularly through email interception and fake bank details—is one of the most common and devastating scams affecting importers. Criminals hack email accounts and send fake payment instructions with altered bank details.

⚠️ Critical Security Measures

Always verify bank details via phone or video call using contact numbers you’ve independently verified. Be extremely suspicious of any “urgent” bank account changes. Use a fresh email thread (not reply) when sending payment confirmations. Consider small test transfers before large payments.

Chapter 10

How a Sourcing Agent Helps Buyers

A China sourcing agent acts as your local partner on the ground, providing the language skills, cultural knowledge, supplier networks, and physical presence needed to navigate China’s manufacturing landscape effectively. For many importers, working with a sourcing agent significantly reduces risk while improving outcomes.

Key Services Provided by Sourcing Agents

🔍

Supplier Discovery

Access to supplier networks beyond online platforms, including factories that don’t export directly or aren’t listed on English-language sites.

Verification & Auditing

On-site factory visits, background checks, and capability assessments to ensure suppliers are legitimate and capable.

🗣️

Negotiation

Native language negotiation leveraging local market knowledge to secure better pricing, terms, and conditions.

📦

Sample Management

Sample collection, evaluation, consolidation, and forwarding—reducing shipping costs and providing expert assessment.

⚙️

Production Monitoring

Regular factory visits during production to ensure schedules are met and quality standards are maintained.

📊

Quality Control

Professional inspections at every stage—pre-production, during production, and pre-shipment—with detailed reporting.

When You Should Consider a Sourcing Agent

  • Sourcing complex or customized products that require detailed specifications
  • Working with suppliers who have limited English capability
  • Unable to travel to China for factory visits and inspections
  • Placing orders with multiple suppliers that need coordination
  • Need to source from 1688 or domestic Chinese platforms
  • Want to reduce risk on first-time or high-value orders
  • Require ongoing production monitoring and quality control
“A good sourcing agent pays for themselves many times over through better pricing, fewer quality issues, and prevented disasters. The question isn’t whether you can afford one—it’s whether you can afford not to have one.”
Chapter 11

Why Choose BSA Group

BSA Group is a professional China sourcing and quality control company with extensive experience helping international buyers navigate the complexities of importing from China. Our team combines deep local expertise with a commitment to transparency, quality, and client success.

15+

Years Experience

500+

Clients Served

10,000+

Inspections Completed

30+

Team Members

Our Core Advantages

🎯

Full-Service Capability

From initial supplier search through shipping, we provide end-to-end support covering every stage of the sourcing process.

🌍

Nationwide Coverage

Our team can reach factories across all major manufacturing regions in China, from Guangdong to Zhejiang to Shandong.

🤝

Transparent Pricing

Clear, upfront pricing with no hidden fees. You always know exactly what services cost before committing.

📸

Detailed Reporting

Comprehensive photo and video documentation for all inspections, audits, and factory visits—full visibility into our work.

💬

Responsive Communication

Dedicated account managers providing prompt responses and proactive updates throughout your projects.

Quality Commitment

We stake our reputation on every inspection and audit. If we miss something, we make it right.

Our Services

  • Supplier Sourcing – Find and evaluate manufacturers for your products
  • Supplier Verification – Background checks and legitimacy verification
  • Factory Audits – On-site capability and compliance assessments
  • Quality Inspections – Pre-production, during production, and pre-shipment
  • Production Monitoring – Regular oversight throughout manufacturing
  • Sample Management – Collection, evaluation, and consolidation services
  • Logistics Support – Shipping coordination and documentation assistance
Chapter 12

Frequently Asked Questions

Get answers to the most common questions about sourcing from China.

MOQs vary widely depending on product type, supplier type, and customization requirements. Standard products from trading companies or wholesale markets may have MOQs as low as 50-100 pieces. Direct factory orders for custom products typically start at 500-1,000 pieces, with some manufacturers requiring 3,000-5,000 pieces for custom tooling or printing. MOQs are often negotiable, especially for repeat buyers or during slow production seasons.

Verify suppliers through multiple methods: check business license registration on China’s National Enterprise Credit Information System, request and verify export licenses and certifications, conduct background checks for legal issues or blacklisting, ask for and contact references from other international buyers, and consider on-site factory audits for significant orders. A professional verification service can conduct comprehensive checks covering all these areas.

Alibaba.com is designed for international buyers with English interface, export-oriented suppliers, and Trade Assurance payment protection. 1688.com typically offers 20-40% lower prices but is Chinese-language only, uses domestic payment systems, and suppliers may not have export experience. For most international buyers, Alibaba is more accessible for direct sourcing, while 1688 is better accessed through a sourcing agent who can navigate the platform and consolidate orders.

For most orders, a staged T/T (wire transfer) with 30% deposit and 70% after inspection approval offers good balance. Letter of Credit provides maximum protection for large orders but involves bank fees and complexity. Alibaba’s Trade Assurance offers protection for platform orders. Always verify bank details directly before transferring, use company (not personal) accounts, and never pay 100% upfront regardless of claimed urgency.

Shipping times depend on method and destination: express courier (DHL, FedEx, UPS) takes 3-7 days; air freight takes 5-10 days; rail freight to Europe takes 15-20 days; sea freight takes 25-45 days depending on destination. Add time for production (2-4 weeks typical), customs clearance (1-5 days normally), and inland delivery. Total door-to-door time from order confirmation is typically 6-12 weeks for sea shipments.

At minimum, conduct a Pre-Shipment Inspection (PSI) when 80-100% of production is complete. For higher-risk or custom orders, add During Production Inspection (DPI) at 20-30% completion to catch issues early. Pre-Production Inspection (PPI) is valuable for verifying raw materials on custom orders. Container Loading Check (CLC) ensures proper packing and loading. Lab testing may be required for products needing safety certifications (CE, FCC, etc.).

Not always, but sourcing agents add significant value in many situations: when sourcing complex or custom products, working with suppliers with limited English, sourcing from 1688 or domestic platforms, needing on-ground representation for factory visits and inspections, or managing multiple suppliers. For simple, standardized products from established Alibaba Gold Suppliers with Trade Assurance, direct sourcing may be sufficient. The agent’s fee is often offset by better pricing, fewer quality issues, and risk reduction.

Import duties vary by product category and destination country. Rates are determined by HS (Harmonized System) codes that classify products. In the US, duty rates range from 0% to 25%+ depending on product type, plus any additional tariffs on Chinese goods. EU duties similarly vary by product classification. Consult your country’s customs tariff database or work with a customs broker to determine exact rates for your products. Beyond duties, factor in VAT/GST and any anti-dumping duties that may apply.

Complete IP protection in China is challenging, but several steps help: use NDA/NNN (Non-Disclosure, Non-Use, Non-Circumvention) agreements written in Chinese and enforceable in Chinese courts; register trademarks and patents in China (not just your home country); work only with verified, reputable suppliers; consider splitting production of key components across multiple factories; avoid sharing more technical details than necessary; and maintain continuous supplier relationships that incentivize long-term cooperation over short-term copying.

These are Incoterms defining who pays for what in shipping. EXW (Ex Works) means the buyer handles everything from the factory door—lowest quoted price but most buyer responsibility. FOB (Free On Board) means the seller delivers to the port and loads on the ship; buyer pays freight from there—most common for sea freight. CIF (Cost, Insurance, Freight) means the seller pays freight and insurance to the destination port; buyer handles import clearance. DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) means seller handles everything including duties—highest price but simplest for buyers.

Ready to Start Sourcing from China?

Let our team of experts help you find reliable suppliers, control quality, and import products safely.