Why China, and what to expect

China produces a large share of the world’s clothing and accessories, but that does not make it the best choice for every brand and every product. A good decision starts by understanding what it offers and what it asks of you.

What it offers

• A range of fabrics, trims and services close to the factory.
• Factories specialised in particular product types, so each product has its known regions and workshops.
• The ability to produce in varied quantities, from small to large, depending on the factory.

What it asks of you

• Clear specifications, because a factory makes what you write, not what you meant.
• A minimum order quantity (MOQ) that may not suit a young brand.
• More time than you expect: samples, revisions, production and shipping.
• Follow up and inspection, because trust is built by verifying, not by politeness.

When China is not the answer

If you need a very small quantity, great speed, or a particular “made in” label, a local workshop or another country may suit you. Always compare on landed cost, not the factory price alone, as in the first collection course.

Exercise

Write three reasons China suits your product and three reasons it might not. Then write the quantity of your first order and the date you need the goods to arrive.