ChinaSolved is pleased to publish important, relevant work by members of China’s international business community. Helping us out again is Arie Schreier of the PTL Group with the final part of a series:

So, how do you choose your partner in China?

“Don’t be anybody’s first foreign client/partner in China” (ChinaSolved.com)

Choosing a business partner in China is just like choosing a business partner anywhere else in the world. Don’t believe anyone who tells you that you cannot do the same kind of background check in China that you can do in other markets.

Here is a short list of things that needs to be done:

1. Reference checks are not only possible - they are a MUST. Check every company on your future partner’s CV and any foreign client he claims to have worked with. Call each one of them and don’t be shy about asking for any type of information. If you are afraid of hurting your future partner’s feelings – DON’T BE! Professionals with nothing to hide will not be offended. If he has something to hide and you don’t do a thorough background check, your feelings and pocket will be hurt badly! It is your business on the line, so don’t feel uncomfortable.

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