How to best become an agent for imported skincare products?

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I have always been very interested in the skincare industry and recently want to try becoming an agent for imported skincare products. But I have no experience at all and don't know where to start. I want to ask everyone, what specific preparations, processes, and precautions are needed to become an agent for imported skincare products? I hope experienced friends can give me detailed advice, thank you.
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Trade Experts Q&A

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Trade Expert Insights Answers

First, conduct market research. Understand the current popular categories in the imported skincare market, target consumer groups, and competitor situations. This will help you find your positioning.

Second, find reliable sources. You can contact suppliers by attending industry exhibitions, online B2B platforms such as Zhongmaoda, and other channels. When communicating with suppliers, confirm product qualifications, including import customs clearance forms, quarantine certificates, etc., to ensure products are legal and compliant.

Then, clarify the cooperation model. Whether it is exclusive agency or regional agency, understand the agency policy, such as order volume requirements, price system, return and exchange policy, etc.

Finally, prepare for operations. This includes store location selection (if it's offline agency), online platform setup (if conducting online business), personnel recruitment and training, etc.

References: Purchasing Agents Are Dead! 2024 Cosmetics Imports Must Go Through Agencies

Capital preparation is important. In addition to funds for purchasing goods, there are also operating and promotion expenses that need to be planned in advance.

Understanding the brand's market promotion support is also crucial, such as advertising investment, promotional activity support, etc., which can help the products open up the market.

Establishing a good customer service system can improve customer satisfaction and repurchase rates, which is beneficial for the development of agency business.

Learn relevant laws and regulations, such as cosmetic labeling regulations, to avoid compliance issues in subsequent operations.

Pay attention to product transportation and warehousing to ensure that products are not damaged during transportation and storage.

You can start with some niche but promising imported skincare brands, where competition is relatively small.

When negotiating cooperation with suppliers, strive for more flexible replenishment policies to avoid inventory backlog.

Communicate and exchange experiences with peers more often, which can help you avoid many detours and get up to speed faster.

User-submitted questions and answers reflect personal opinions, not the official stance of this website.

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