Questions to consider before doing business in China

If you are considering doing business in China, it is best to start by spending some time thinking about your company's China objectives. The ten questions listed below should help you to focus your thoughts, as well as highlight areas for further research.

Your aims
Do you wish to buy from China, sell to China or both?

Do you wish to establish your own company presence in China, for example through a representative office, wholly foreign-owned enterprise (WFOE) or joint venture?

Do you need to be involved in China at all?

Your company
What are the unique selling points for your product or service?

Do you know if there is a market for your product in China?

Do you know if you can be competitive in China?

Do you have the time and resources to handle the demands of communication, travel, product delivery and after sales service?

Your knowledge
Do you know how to secure payment for your products or service?

Do you know where in China you should start?

Do you know how to locate and screen potential partners, agents or distributors?

Source, Mushtaq Bux, UKTI