TMBA 265: Visiting China - Why Entrepreneurs Travel to the Canton Fair
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The Canton Fair is taking place this October, so I was really happy to run into my old friend Matt Kowolak from HighCappin.com. Matt has been living as an entrepreneur in China for ten years, and he is the person I go to whenever I have a question about the country. We chat it up about the history of the fair, what it feels like to attend such a historic trade show and what kind of opportunities exist there. He also shares a broad overview of what living in China as an expatriate is like and how to take advantage of their entrepreneurial culture.
Listen to this week's show and learn:
The history of the Canton fair and how it became the world's biggest trade show.
Why some entrepreneurs treat the Canton fair like an annual pilgrimage.
Trips for beginners who are traveling to the fair.
Why having a successful show might mean that you have to stay for a month.
What to look out for when starting a relationship with a Chinese factory supplier.
How to build legitimate trusted relationships with suppliers.
People on this episode:
Mentioned in the episode:
Call us at 888-554-8428
TropicalMBA Listeners
The Canton Fair
HighCappin.com
eCommerceFuel #47: Exploring the Largest Trade Show in Asia
Running With China
AliBaba.com
shenzhenparty.com (for seeking help at the trade show).
shenzhenstuff.com (for seeking help at the trade show).
Matt's 12 Point Supplier Checklist (questions to ask):
Factory address and website
Trading Company vs Mfg
Number of years in business
Main products lines
Main export markets
Top 3 clients
Factory audit experience
Product Safety testing experience
Number of workers per department
Type and number of machines
Production capacity and current utilization
Order MOQs and Production leadtimes
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Thanks for listening to our show! We'll be back next Thursday morning 8AM EST.
Cheers,
Dan & Ian