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Are You Ready for a Supply Chain in China?

January 27, 2009

China street
If you’re doing business in China, or even thinking about it, you need to read Steven Ganster’s article in Supply and Demand Chain Executive Magazine.

Ganster is the CEO of Technomic Asia, and in his article “The China-ready Supply Chain: Key attributes to ensure a high degree of readiness for doing business well with China,” he offers insights into the challenges and strategic factors that need consideration if you’re contemplating a supply chain in the East.

It’s an important read because as Ganster succinctly says, “Any global strategic plan without China as an integral part needs a reality check.”

The article details several key challenges to preparing a China-ready supply chain. This list includes:

  • China’s vast and complex market landscape
  • Financial and legal systems that are more “rule by man” than “rule by law”
  • Business and cultural differences with the West
  • Constant dynamism in China’s economy

Ganster then goes on to outline specific attributes that indicate a supply chain’s readiness for China. He says that you can rate your company’s readiness level by considering its:

  • Strategic alignment
  • Transparency
  • Partnerships with key participant in your supply chain
  • On-the-ground resources

The full article is well worth a few minutes of your time.

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