{"id":10853,"date":"2022-08-22T07:30:15","date_gmt":"2022-08-22T07:30:15","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/focus.cbbc.org\/?p=10853"},"modified":"2025-04-23T09:38:15","modified_gmt":"2025-04-23T09:38:15","slug":"importing-from-china-how-to-source-a-manufacturer-in-china","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/focus.cbbc.org\/importing-from-china-how-to-source-a-manufacturer-in-china\/","title":{"rendered":"Importing from China: How to source a manufacturer in China"},"content":{"rendered":"

In the first of a series on importing from China<\/strong>, transportation and logistics specialist Heighten<\/strong> offers advice on what to consider when sourcing a manufacturer in China<\/h2>\n

China is still the first port of call for many companies looking to source products to import to the UK, but before you start sourcing, it is important to define what you (think) are looking for. What is important to your organisation? What is a must-have, a nice to have and an optional? What are your short- and longer-term plans, and will the products\/manager you need change as your plans change? Having these before you start sourcing is a good foundation and a useful document to refer back to at later stages to reground you.<\/p>\n

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Below are a few examples of where you can start sourcing a manufacturer:<\/p>\n

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  1. Industry conferences and trade shows:<\/strong> Chinese attendees should be experienced in international trade and have the basic skills needed to work with you.<\/li>\n
  2. UK online forums:<\/strong> Focused, niche forums can be a source of specific information including contacts, practical tips based on others\u2019 experiences, and feedback on products bought.<\/li>\n
  3. Alibaba:<\/strong> Alibaba has evolved tremendously over the last two decades, and while it is a powerful search engine with lots of information, it can still be quite hard to find a great partner. It helps to use filters effectively to find exactly what you\u2019re looking for.<\/li>\n
  4. \u00a0LinkedIn:<\/strong> There are groups on LinkedIn focused on connecting manufacturers and agents with potential clients, although they vary in quality. Nevertheless, LinkedIn is a good place to post questions and requirements, as well as learn from others\u2019 experiences.<\/li>\n
  5. CBBC:<\/strong> Our CBBC teams may be able to offer advice or introduce you to other member companies.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

    The next best step is to reach out to 3-10 companies. Initial contact can be one of the best, early filters \u2013 who replies and how are communications? This doesn\u2019t guarantee quality, but from a sanity point of view, it can be very important.<\/p>\n

    Try to select a mix of companies to find out which one is right for you. As an SME, for example, selecting a multi-billion USD supplier probably isn\u2019t the best final choice, however, a large company can be a good source of information and resources which can be useful reference points when dealing with others. Ask for references in your country or region, and do engage with these references before<\/em> you order.<\/p>\n