Trading with China can be a successful opportunity, but it can also be very costly if done hastily. When starting out, it is absolutely imperative that you have a local representative in China who can properly obtain and file for all appropriate documentation required by the Chinese government.

Luckily, the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade have active members working in China to assist your trade endeavors. However, as of September 2009, there has been a dramatic increase in the strictness of inspection standards by Chinese customs, when related to imports coming into the country.

Regulations have recently changed, and are tougher than they were a year or two ago, so make sure your local representative is well aware of this before you dedicate a purchase order for shipping. Contacting the Chinese authorities or customs officials will be the easiest way to discover the latest regulations.

Travel can also be an issue. You can check the current status of travel conditions at http://www.smartraveller.gov.au/zw-cgi/view/Advice/China

Here are some useful resources when choosing to export to China:
• Chinese Embassy
• Shipping/Logistics Contractors
• Australian government officials
• Australian Trade Commission – www.austrade.com.au

China has one of the most rapidly growing manufacturing industries in the world. The Chinese markets are always in need of raw materials and resources from other countries.

Here are the latest statistics for Chinese trade with Australia (courtesy the Department of Foreign Affairs):

Major Australian exports to China (2008):
• Iron ore and concentrates – A$18,016 million
• Wool and other animal hair (Including tops) – A$1,438 million
• Copper ores and concentrates – A$1,241 million
• Manganese ores and concentrates – A$940 million

Major Australian imports from China (2008):
• Clothing– A$3,889 million
• Telecom equipment and parts– A$2,898 million
• Computers– A$2,755 million
• Prams, toys, games and sporting goods– A$1,992 million

Question? Post it on the Free Export INFO Blog

Share this Article: