I want to be a dairy import and export agent, what specifically should I do?
Resolved
I'm planning to get into the dairy import and export agency business recently, but I have absolutely no experience and don't know where to start. I'd like to ask everyone, what policies and regulations do I need to understand to be a dairy import and export agent? How can I find reliable suppliers and customers? Are there any special points to note in the operational process? I hope experienced friends can give me a detailed explanation. I would be very grateful!
Trade Expert Insights Answers
First, you need to be familiar with relevant policies and regulations. China has strict requirements for dairy product imports. For infant formula, it must comply with regulations such as the Administrative Measures for the Registration of Infant Formula Product Formulas. You need to have a deep understanding of the list of approved countries and products, which can be checked on the official website of the General Administration of Customs.
When looking for suppliers and customers, you can attend various international food exhibitions, such as the SIAL International Food Exhibition in France. At these exhibitions, you can directly connect with many high-quality suppliers and potential customers. You can also use professional B2B platforms, such as Alibaba International Station, to post agency information and attract partners.
In terms of the operational process, before signing the agency contract, clarify the rights and obligations of both parties. Before the goods arrive at the port, prepare the customs declaration and inspection documents in advance, such as contracts, invoices, packing lists, certificates of origin, and health certificates, to ensure smooth customs clearance. At the same time, pay attention to the storage conditions of dairy products, which must meet the corresponding temperature and humidity requirements to ensure product quality.
You can start by establishing a professional team. Members should preferably have experience in international trade, logistics, etc., which will help in business development. Additionally, establish contact with domestic distributors and retailers to expand domestic sales channels in advance, which will help in better market penetration.
You need to do a good job in cost accounting. In addition to the product price itself, costs such as transportation, warehousing, and taxes should also be considered. It is also important to focus on product quality control. During import, inspection should be carried out according to standards to ensure compliance with domestic quality requirements and avoid problems.
Understanding the trade practices of different countries is also very important, which can reduce misunderstandings and improve cooperation efficiency when communicating and cooperating with suppliers and customers. For example, European and American countries may be more direct and efficient in business communication.
Establishing good logistics partnerships is crucial to ensure the safety and timeliness of dairy product transportation. You can choose logistics companies with good reputations and extensive service networks to ensure the smooth transportation of goods.
Learn and master some knowledge of the dairy industry, such as the characteristics of various dairy products and market trends. This will make you more professional in your business and better able to communicate with customers.
Pay timely attention to exchange rate fluctuations, as dairy product import and export involve settlement in different currencies. Exchange rate changes can affect costs and profits, so prepare response measures in advance.
You can join some industry associations, such as the China Dairy Industry Association, to obtain industry dynamics, policy interpretations, and other information through the association, and to network with peers and exchange experiences.
Build your own brand image and service features to stand out among many agents. For example, provide better after-sales service to make customers trust you more.
Assess and prevent potential risks, such as changes in trade policies and market fluctuations. Develop response strategies in advance to reduce losses.