Insights from the China sourcing trenches

Alibaba is the English, global B2B marketplace with USD payment and Trade Assurance escrow, but many sellers are trading companies, so prices often run 10-30% higher. 1688 is Alibaba's Chinese-language domestic platform where factory-direct prices are typically 20-40% lower, but it has no English, no export support, and accepts RMB only. Read the full guide →

Use Alibaba for a first order or samples (English plus escrow), 1688 to cut cost on reorders and scale via a China-side partner who can export, and the Canton Fair to meet factories face-to-face, verify them, and discover new products. Read the full guide →

The autumn 2026 Canton Fair runs October 15 to November 4 in three phases. Phase 1 (Oct 15-19) covers Electronics, Household Appliances, Hardware and Tools, Machinery and Lighting. Note that Golden Week (Oct 1-7) closes Chinese factories just before it. Read the full guide →

It depends on mode and volume: sea freight on a DDP basis is the cheapest per kg but slowest, air freight is faster at a premium, and rates spike in peak season. We publish real, current numbers by ZIP zone. Read the full guide →

No. The $800 de minimis exemption for low-value imports has been eliminated, so shipments now face duties and formal customs entry regardless of value. Read the full guide →

Most China business runs on WeChat, and WeChat Pay now lets foreign buyers link an international card to pay suppliers directly. Our setup guide walks through it step by step. Read the full guide →

It depends on the mold type, number of cavities, and part complexity. A simple single-cavity injection mold is far cheaper than a multi-cavity hardened-steel tool. Our guide breaks down the types and realistic costs so you do not overpay. Read the full guide →