How to Find Trusted Factories and Suppliers in China: My Proven Methods

Starting or scaling a product-based business often involves working with factories and suppliers in China. But with so many options available—and just as many pitfalls—how do you find partners you can truly rely on?

After years of trial and error, I’ve developed a simple, effective approach to sourcing factories that align with your values and business goals. Whether you're building your first prototype or preparing for mass production, these are the exact strategies I use to find reliable partners in China.

1. Referrals from People You Trust

One of the most powerful (and underrated) ways to find a good factory is through referrals. If you know someone already working in the industry, ask them for recommendations. It saves you time and builds instant trust. When you’re introduced by someone they know and respect, suppliers are often more willing to give you better prices and faster service.

I’ve personally saved months of negotiation time and secured better deals simply because someone vouched for me.

2. Attending Trade Shows in China

If you don’t have any personal connections yet, the next best option is to attend a trade show. Shows like the Canton Fair or industry-specific exhibitions in Guangzhou, Shenzhen, and Shanghai allow you to meet factory representatives in person. You’ll be able to:

• See and touch samples

• Ask questions directly

• Compare multiple suppliers side by side

What’s more, many reps will privately share opinions about their competitors—something you won’t find online. Factories at these shows often have more experience working with international clients, though keep in mind that their prices may be slightly higher.

3. Online Platforms: Alibaba and 1688

When traveling isn’t an option, online platforms are your next best bet. I often use:

• Alibaba.com for international-facing suppliers

• 1688.com (Chinese version, often cheaper but requires Mandarin skills)

These platforms let you filter by factory certifications, minimum order quantities, and product categories. One quick tip: ask suppliers to send you a product catalog via WeChat. It makes ongoing communication much easier and helps build a personal relationship early on.

4. Xiaohongshu (Little Red Book): The Underrated Gem

This one’s for those comfortable navigating Chinese social media. Xiaohongshu (also called RED) is a lifestyle and product discovery platform where many factory owners promote their products through private accounts. It’s a great way to find newer, more flexible factories that aren’t on the big sourcing sites.

However, most communication happens in Chinese, so it’s best if you—or someone on your team—can speak the language.

5. Visit Factories in Person—If You Can

Nothing builds trust like a face-to-face meeting. No matter how good the reviews are or how responsive a supplier is online, you should always visit the factory before placing a large order. Walk the floor, talk to the workers, and see how the factory operates.

You’ll get a real sense of whether they can deliver consistent quality—and whether they’re the kind of partner you want to build with long-term.

Final Thoughts

Finding the right factory in China isn’t just about cost—it’s about building partnerships that support your vision. Whether through referrals, trade shows, online platforms, or in-person visits, trust and communication are your most valuable assets.

If you’ve got questions or want to hear more about my sourcing experiences, leave a comment or connect with me on Instagram @StarterWilson. I'm always happy to share more.

Let’s keep building.

— Wilson