How to Import from China
A buyer-focused overview of supplier selection, samples, inspection, documentation and delivery into East Africa.
- Define specifications before contacting suppliers
- Verify factory capacity and samples
- Inspect before shipment
- Plan customs and last-mile early
PPDA Procurement Guidelines
Orientation for teams navigating Uganda public procurement expectations — planning, competition and documentation discipline.
- Plan requirements clearly
- Keep audit-ready records
- Align specifications to need
- Engage compliant suppliers
Supplier Verification Checklist
A practical checklist SNIC uses when evaluating new suppliers for institutional and commercial buyers.
- Legal & tax identity
- Production capability
- Quality systems
- References & past performance
Incoterms Explained
Understand who pays for freight, insurance and risk transfer — so quotes compare like-for-like.
- Know risk transfer points
- Compare EXW, FOB, CIF carefully
- Align Incoterms to inspection plans
- Avoid hidden landed-cost surprises
Shipping vs Air Freight
When sea makes sense for cost and volume — and when air protects timelines for urgent or high-value cargo.
- Sea for bulk & cost efficiency
- Air for urgency & smaller loads
- Consolidation can change the math
- Inspection timing still matters
Need advice applied to your live procurement?
Talk to SNIC