DIVERSE MARKETS REQUIRE CAREFUL RESEARCH

China is a very diverse market with varying levels of development and regional industrial strengths. From Harbin in China's Northeast, to subtropical Haikou on Hainan Island in the South China Sea, China encompasses diverse topographies, climates, cultures, and peoples. Each region therefore has its own consumer preferences and business needs. Some industries are spread all over the country, some are clustered, and others are heavily concentrated in one area. For example, of the roughly 3,000 personal care products factories in China, 2,700 are located in the southern province of Guangdong.

Basic doing business in China market research is available from the U.S. Department of Commerce through www.export.gov, as well as a host of private consulting firms, research companies, and trade groups. The commercial sections of the U.S. embassy and consulates in China can also work with American exporters to provide research on specific topics to understand current market conditions, pricing, and future trends.

Lists of local "Doing Business In China" businesses service providers, consultants, and law firms are available through the commercial sections of the U.S. embassy and consulates. The U.S. Department of Commerce maintains offices in Beijing, Chengdu, Guangzhou, Shanghai, Shenyang, and Hong Kong. Similarly, many companies need multiple representatives to cover China.

Doing Business In China Information

SPEAK THE SAME LANGUAGE

Despite China's commitment to, and success in, developing human resources with good English-language skills, companies that are serious about doing business in China should supply company information in Chinese and be prepared to initiate contact in Chinese. Having Chinese-language material prepared and a Chinese speaker or interpreter available makes a great first impression and demonstrates that a company is serious about doing business in China.