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China is well known for producing a wide range of products, including ceramic and porcelain tiles, and is a major worldwide manufacturing center. There are several reputable and high-quality tile suppliers in China, but it’s not always simple to find them. It might be difficult and complicated to identify the actual tile makers among a sea of intermediaries, brokers, and trading firms. We’ll look at five main factors in this post that make locating legitimate tile manufacturers in China difficult. Continue reading to learn more about Chinese tile suppliers if you want to import ceramic and porcelain tiles from China.
Reason 1: Most tile manufacturers focus on production, and export business relies on trading companies.
The majority of ceramic tile manufacturers in China concentrate on production and do not possess the export rights. The responsibility of exporting tile business is basically carried out by trading companies.
But why is this so? The primary reason is the language barrier. Factories with sales staff who can communicate proficiently in English with foreign importers are few and far between. Some factories don’t even have a dedicated person in charge of exports. This language barrier and lack of specialized staff make it difficult for overseas buyers to deal directly with factories, hence the reliance on trading companies for exports.
Reason 2: Tile manufacturers have limited channels for export marketing
Another difficulty in recognizing actual tile manufacturers in China is their limited export marketing outlets. Unlike trading companies, factories rarely participate in trade shows or use B2B platforms to connect with foreign buyers. Most of the suppliers you see on Alibaba or Made-in-China are not real tile factories. This lack of visibility makes it harder for overseas importers to discover and develop direct relationships with genuine tile manufacturers in China.
What is the reason behind this?
On one hand, participating in trade shows or being part of B2B platforms can be expensive. To perform well, these tasks need a large number of sales staff. Furthermore, the language barrier makes it difficult for firms to connect with and gain orders from international importers. As a result, many ceramic tile manufacturers simply choose not to participate in trade shows or join these platforms.
On the other hand, while factories might be interested in doing business directly with foreign ceramic tile brands or importers, they also worry about the potential implications. If they start dealing directly with overseas clients, it could mean giving up collaborations with domestic trading companies. This concern further discourages factories from wanting to establish direct cooperation with foreign importers.
Reason 3: Ceramic tile factories don’t have an English website or lack understanding of online marketing
The third reason why it’s difficult to find actual Chinese tile manufacturers is that factories do not have their own English websites, and they don’t understand online marketing and website development.
These factories’ websites are often very simple and intended only for basic display purposes, with no expectation that customers might find and contact them through this platform. Consequently, when they commission the creation of a website, they typically outsource it to a web development company, and most of the people who create websites have limited English proficiency.
This lack of online marketing makes it hard for foreign importers to find them and learn about their products and capabilities. Without a well-designed, informative website and SEO skills, these factories remain hidden in the vast websites, making the search for actual tile manufacturers even more challenging.
The causes behind this might be traced to a variety of things.
Firstly, many ceramic tile suppliers might not fully comprehend the importance and potential of online marketing in reaching a wider global audience. Secondly, they may lack the necessary skills or resources to develop and maintain a professional English website. Finally, they may be so focused on their manufacturing processes that they overlook the need for effective web marketing. All these make it hard for overseas buyers to find and engage with them.
Reason 4: Limited international market understanding
Many tile factories in China might not have a deep understanding of international markets. Because they lack knowledge, they may struggle to properly customize their tile designs and marketing methods to fit the specific needs and preferences of overseas consumers. Without a clear understanding of what overseas importers are looking for, these tile companies may struggle to attract and establish relationships with foreign customers.
Reason 5: Regulatory and Compliance Issues
When it comes to exporting items, a host of regulatory and compliance challenges must be addressed. Understanding and conforming to foreign nations’ import norms and standards, as well as handling export paperwork and customs processes, are examples of this. Many tile manufacturers may lack the knowledge or skills to overcome these complications, making it easier for them to rely on trading firms to handle exports.
To summarize, while locating actual tile producers in China might be difficult owing to factors such as restricted marketing channels, a lack of online presence, a lack of awareness of international markets, and regulatory requirements, it is not an impossible endeavor.
It takes rigorous investigation, patience, and a desire to go below the surface, or you might consider hiring local specialists to assist you.
Remember, the aim is to select a trusted partner who can satisfy your demands and contribute to the development of your business, not just a ceramic tile manufacturer.
If you need help finding Chinese ceramic tile suppliers, please feel free to contact us.
