AboutHank S Expertise Ask me about sourcing products in China, finding manufacturers in China, importing from China, developing new products in China, moving manufacturing to China, price negotiations with suppliers in China, and logistics-related issues.
Experience I lived in China from 1993 to 2003 where I learned Chinese and worked in the fields of logistics, marketing and manufacturing services. I have visited hundreds of factories in China. I am authorized by the NYS Unified Court System as an interpreter of Mandarin Chinese. I have an MBA in international business and entrepreneurship. I work in a U.S. company as product development and sourcing manager.
Education/Credentials MBA, International Business & Entrepreneurship, City University of NY
BA, East Asian Studies & Chinese, City University of NY
Studied international trade taught in Chinese at the University of International Business & Economics in Beijing
Chinese language study at Beijing University & Nanjing University
Question Hank
Have you had any dealings with importing from S. Korea to the US?
I'm looking to import guitars from a company called KHL Corporation. Any advice on finding a trade representative for S. Korea? Thanks for any help. LJ
Answer Try canvassing your neighborhood Korean grocery stores, dry cleaners and nail salons. Ask the proprietors about their cousin "Kim" who is in the import/export business.
If that doesn't work try the nearest Korean Chamber of Commerce. Also try the Korean embassy or consulate nearest you -- their equivalent of a "commercial section". Find trade shows and exhibitions taking place where Korean companies will be exhibiting. If the scope of the show is big enough there are sure to be various Korean agents, entrepreneurs and other business types walking around. Networking Lawrence, networking.
There is another thing you can consider, depending on your personal and monetary situation, marital status, employment status, etc. You could go to S. Korea and probably get a job as an English teacher. This way you could cover your costs while you get the lay of the land, find yourself a trade rep, meet the factory, etc.
