Introduction
Finding reliable suppliers is crucial for any business looking to source products from China. Visiting China to meet suppliers in person can provide valuable insights, build stronger relationships, and ensure the quality and reliability of the suppliers you choose. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to find suppliers by visiting China.
1. Plan Your Trip
A. Define Your Goals
Before embarking on your trip, clearly define what you hope to achieve. Are you looking to establish new supplier relationships, inspect product quality, or negotiate better terms? Having clear objectives will help you make the most of your visit.
B. Research and Schedule Meetings
Conduct thorough research to identify potential suppliers. Use online platforms like Alibaba, Made-in-China, and Global Sources to shortlist suppliers. Contact them in advance to schedule meetings during your visit.
C. Plan Your Itinerary
China is vast, so plan your itinerary carefully. Major industrial regions include Guangdong, Zhejiang, and Jiangsu. Focus on areas relevant to your industry to maximize your time and resources.
D. Get a VPN
In mainland China, access to websites such as Google, Facebook and YouTube are limited by the government. So if you want your phone or laptop to work out as the same way back in your country when you are visiting China, you’ll have to install a reliable VPN on them. And just in case you don’t know where to find a capable VPN, Astrill seems to be a good option, it’s not free, but it’s worthy.
2. Trade Shows and Exhibitions
A. Attend Major Trade Shows
Trade shows are excellent opportunities to meet numerous suppliers under one roof. Key trade shows include:
- Canton Fair (Guangzhou): China’s largest trade fair, held biannually.
| Canton Fair Schedule | |
| Phase | Categories |
| Phase 14.15-4.19 (Spring)10.15- 10.19 (Autumn) | Automotive, Electronics, Building & Construction, Industrial Products, Engineering |
| Phase 24.23-4.27 (Spring)10.23-10.27 (Autumn) | Home & Office, Furniture, Toys & Games, Gifts, Cosmetics, Arts & Crafts |
| Phase 35.1-5.5 (Spring)10.31-11.4 (Autumn) | Home & Office, Food & Beverage, Fashion & Beauty, Health Industry, Textile & Fabrics |
- Global Sources Trade Shows (Hong Kong): Specializes in electronics, gifts, and home products.
Hong Kong Electronics Fair
Date: 13 April – 16 April (Spring) / 13 October – 16 October(Autumn)
Address: Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, 1 Expo Dr, Wan Chai, Hong Kong
Reason for recommendation:
It is one of the trade shows favored by Chinese manufacturers and trading companies. In this trade show, you can find all types of electronic products. And visiting Hong Kong Electronics Fair might be a good way to fill the waiting gap of the Canton Fair a little.
Hong Kong Gifts & Premiere Fairs
Date: 27 April – 30 April
Address: Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, 1 Expo Drive, Wan Chai, Hong Kong
Reason for recommendation:
It is also one of the most famous trade shows. Trade shows in the gift industry always have very wide product categories. You can always see products like electronics, toys gifts, party products, and more. This trade show is hosted during the three-day gap between Canton Fair Spring Phase Two and Phase Three.
MEGA SHOW
Date: 20 October – 23 October
Address: Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, 1 Expo Dr, Wan Chai, Hong Kong
Reason for recommendation:
It is the largest and sourcing trade events in Hong Kong held in every October for gifts, premiums, housewares, kitchen and dining, lifestyle products, toys and games, Christmas and festive, sporting goods and stationery in the Asia-Pacific region. And it held is between Canton Fair Autumn Phase One and Phase Two.
As you can see, all these trade shows in Hong Kong are held before or after different phases of Canton Fair.
So it’s highly recommended for you to apply for a Chinese visa, which allows you to visit trade shows in both Guangzhou and Hong Kong in April and October. And it just takes one hour traveling by train between these two cities.
- Yiwu Fair (Yiwu): Known for small commodities and daily-use items.
B. Prepare for Trade Shows
Register for trade shows in advance and prepare by researching exhibitors. Bring business cards, a list of questions, and be ready to take notes. Trade shows can be overwhelming, so having a plan will help you stay focused.
3. Visiting Factories
A. Arrange Factory Visits
Visiting factories gives you a firsthand look at production processes and quality control. Coordinate visits with your shortlisted suppliers and allocate enough time for each visit.
B. Evaluate the Factory
During your visit, assess the factory’s capabilities, cleanliness, and workforce. Check for certifications and quality control measures. A well-organized and transparent factory is a good sign of reliability.
C. Ask Key Questions
Prepare a list of questions to ask during your factory visits:
- What are your production capabilities and lead times?
- How do you handle quality control and product testing?
- Can you provide references or testimonials from other clients?
4. Building Relationships
A. Understand Cultural Differences
Building strong relationships with Chinese suppliers often involves understanding and respecting cultural differences. Politeness, respect, and patience go a long way in establishing trust.
B. Engage in Social Activities
Chinese business culture values relationship-building through social activities. Don’t hesitate to join your suppliers for dinners or other social events. These interactions can strengthen your business relationships.
C. Maintain Communication
After your visit, keep the lines of communication open. Regular updates and clear communication help maintain a good relationship and ensure smooth collaboration.
5. Legal and Logistical Considerations
A. Understand Legal Requirements
Familiarize yourself with China’s legal requirements for business transactions. This includes understanding contracts, intellectual property rights, and import/export regulations.
B. Logistics and Shipping
Plan the logistics of shipping your products from China. Understand the costs, shipping options, and timelines. Partnering with a reliable freight forwarder can streamline this process.
C. Payment Terms and Methods
Negotiate favorable payment terms with your suppliers. Common payment methods include wire transfers, letters of credit, and trade financing. Ensure that payment terms are clearly outlined in your contracts.
Conclusion
Visiting China to find suppliers can significantly benefit your sourcing strategy. It allows you to build strong relationships, verify the quality of suppliers, and negotiate better terms. By planning your trip, attending trade shows, visiting factories, and understanding cultural nuances, you can successfully find and partner with reliable Chinese suppliers.
For more detailed assistance and professional sourcing services, please contact our professional HK Dayo agents right now!
