How to find suppliers in China
Bottom line up front: most first-time importers waste 2–3 months because they use only one channel (usually Alibaba) and compare 20 random suppliers. Use 4 channels in sequence, and you'll have a shortlist of 5 credible factories in about 3 weeks.
Channel 1: Online platforms (Alibaba, 1688)
What it costs, how to filter, and which signals actually predict a real factory (vs a trading company posing as one).
Channel 2: Trade shows (Canton Fair and vertical fairs)
When a ticket is worth it — and when a supplier visit does more for you.
Channel 3: Referrals from people already buying your category
The cheapest lead list in the business, and how to get it without being awkward about it.
Channel 4: Industrial belts (where your category actually lives)
LED = Shenzhen, furniture = Foshan, small home appliances = Cixi… belt knowledge is where most of your edge is.
Which channel to start with (by order size)
| First order size | Start with | Why |
|---|---|---|
| < $5k | Platforms + referrals | Trade shows don't pay for themselves yet |
| $5k–50k | + one trade show | One good factory contact is worth the ticket |
| > $50k | + belt trip or agent | On-site verification beats remote for big money |
FAQ
How many suppliers should I sample from? 3–5. More than that and you lose the ability to compare properly.
Can I find the factory behind a trading company? Usually, yes — export records and belt knowledge get you there. Guide: how to verify a supplier.
Next: run these 5 through a factory audit →
Stop guessing — use the checklist
Get the free supplier checklist (30 items) used before every vetting order we deliver.
Get the free checklist