China Sourcing & Suppliers
Can I source directly from Alibaba instead of using a sourcing partner?
Yes. The key question is who will manage the work between finding a product and receiving the agreed supply.
Read AnswerRESOURCES · SOURCING Q&A
Sourcing Q&A
Practical answers to common questions about sourcing, custom manufacturing and project supply from China.
Based on real questions we hear from Australian businesses working with suppliers in China.
Featured Q&A
A useful place to start.
Working with TL
Can I communicate directly with the factory?
Direct supplier communication is part of a transparent working relationship, with TL supporting the discussions and follow-through.
Read AnswerChina Sourcing & Suppliers
How do I know if a Chinese supplier is legitimate?
Check the company’s identity and then assess whether its actual capability matches your project.
Read AnswerCustom Product Development
Can TL develop a completely custom product?
Custom development starts with the intended use and a manufacturing approach that can meet the requirement.
Read AnswerQuality & Compliance
Can TL help with Australian standards and compliance requirements?
Identify the applicable product and project requirements early, then connect them to the supplier, documents and production scope.
Read AnswerChina Visits & Trade Shows
Can TL support factory visits and trade shows in China?
A productive visit connects preparation, supplier discussions and the follow-up needed to turn meetings into a workable project.
Read AnswerChina Visits & Trade Shows
5 questions
China Visits & Trade Shows
Can TL support factory visits and trade shows in China?
A productive visit connects preparation, supplier discussions and the follow-up needed to turn meetings into a workable project.
Read AnswerChina Visits & Trade Shows
Which trade shows should I visit when sourcing from China?
Choose the event for the product category and supplier conversations you need, rather than its size alone.
Read AnswerChina Visits & Trade Shows
Can TL arrange factory visits before or after a trade show?
Factory visits can add useful context when the suppliers, locations and meeting objectives are planned realistically.
Read AnswerChina Visits & Trade Shows
Do I need to speak Chinese when visiting suppliers or trade shows?
You do not need to speak Chinese, but the quality of the technical and commercial communication still matters.
Read AnswerChina Visits & Trade Shows
What happens after I meet a supplier at a trade show?
Turn the contact into a structured follow-up: clarify the offer, review capability and agree what needs to happen next.
Read AnswerHave a sourcing requirement in mind?
Tell us what you need, from an individual product to a multi-category project.