Global Sources Final Wrap Up

I pray that the internet Gods won't block this--for some reason I've not been able to post for the entire last 10 days--couldn't have anything to do with a large gathering in North, could it?!Anyway, here is attempt number 239 to post a simple tradeshow report.A couple of final notes from the GS Tradeshow in Hong Kong before I post the SRI presentation.First, Global Sources is starting a new website with information for people going to China. There are a number of articles written by yours truly and many other great resources. Check it out here.Second, Allen Mathews is the only guy I’ve every meet that is honestly glad for the multiple degrees of Chinese bureaucracy. Why? Because of the information that they provide on Chinese companies for people that are doing due diligence on their potential Chinese partners. For more on the services that he offers check out Verify’s website.Allen also said that US companies coming to China need to be wary that they are not involved with PEP’s in China—Politically Exposed People. Why? If these people in sensitive positions get into political or legal trouble it could be a PR nightmare for a foreign company that is even indirectly involved with an associated business entity.Third, Michael Lavergne of Bureau Veritas (website) listed out the steps of an integrated supply chain and where you should be testing your products. The steps for audits, tests, or inspections include:An initial Technical Factory Audit and a Social Compliance Audit;Product Testing in Development.System Line Review.In-Line Inspection of ProductProduction Testing of Finished Product or Parts.Pre-shipping Testing of full or a Percentage of Total Order.Distribution Center Testing (Too late for solving any problems).Last, Mike Bellamy of Passagemaker (website) has a “black box” operation—the ability to coordinate various suppliers and control product quality and protect IP. The concept is that if you don’t any have your own presence in China you can use Passagemaker to both assemble and coordinate production with the confidence that your IP will be protected an you’ll get the product quality you demand. Good stuff!I’ll post the entire “Qualitative Techniques for Finding the Best Factory” presentation later this week.