What do you think of China's unclear regulation of imports? What is the best way to overcome this problem?
I don't think the lack of clarity in Chinese regulations actually affects importers directly. If you import shoes, you won't have any problems with Chinese regulations. Suppliers load goods into containers (for FOC Incoterm) and you won't have any problems.
Importing from China does have tax benefits. But this is already included in our supplier's FOB price. That said, we don't need to know about legislation. There are also regulations that control and monitor the products that suppliers can export. For example, shoe suppliers cannot export sofas. This is why so many manufacturing companies in China entrust their exports to other companies. All of this is done to avoid China's strict regulations. But as mentioned earlier, this has little impact on importers.
What are the main difficulties and challenges that importers face when importing from China?
For first-time importers, the lack of understanding of the entire process is undoubtedly the biggest hurdle. They don't know how to hire a shipping company or who they have to pay duties and taxes to when shipping containers.
For experienced importers, their biggest problem is often the volatility of container prices. You can agree to a price of $500, but it goes up to $2,500 on the day it ships. Right now, this is the most vexing problem.
What advice do you have for shippers importing from China?
I recommend working under FOB Incoterm. Always negotiate FOB prices to avoid surprises from CIF prices. Under FOB conditions, you can control the entire shipping process from the origin port to the warehouse. This way, you can avoid any unexpected charges and get everything organized before the import process begins.
Can China maintain its status as the world's largest producer for a long time? Are there any signs that this will change?
I have no doubt that China will continue to be the world's largest producer for quite some time. What is happening today is that the processes that took place in China ten years ago have moved to other countries where labor costs are low, just like China ten years ago.
But having said that, some processes are just moved. A large portion remains in China. I think the production of raw materials in China will continue for some time.
How can importers minimize the impact of the General Tax Rate Increase (GRI)?
Since most GRIs are in effect in the first week of the month, importers can avoid the impact of GRIs by billing in the last week. Another option is to negotiate with your forwarder to get a better price than another shipping company that is not affected by GRI.
In terms of technology, what are the main opportunities for imports from China? What are the main advantages of using technology to book ocean freight?
Find suppliers through the Alibaba platform, new payment methods with companies like Transfermate, container tracking, and door-to-door services with companies like TJ chinafreight. Technology has definitely made life easier for importers.
In your opinion, which markets in China currently offer the greatest potential and opportunities for exporters?
I am not an expert on exporting to China. But every time I travel to China, I always try to find out what the Chinese are looking for.
I talk to people in my China office and they always tell me the same thing. Health and quality of life are the top concerns for Chinese people. Being able to feed a family is one of them, especially after the tainted baby milk incident. Pollution is also a big problem in China. That said, anything that offers a solution or can improve the quality of life in China is always a huge business opportunity.
As always, luxury. international well-known brand. The Chinese middle class is willing to pay higher prices for quality European products than for local Chinese products.
