13| The One Strategy for Strengthening Vendor Relationships in China

In this episode of Supply Chain Moves, host Lara sits down with Glaiza Ilagan, CEO of Move Supply Chain, and April Loquillano, an experienced supply chain manager, to share expert insights on preparing for a successful business trip to China. As they gear up for their upcoming visit, Glaiza and April break down everything you need to know about navigating China's manufacturing landscape, from attending the Canton Fair to building strong vendor relationships. This episode is packed with practical tips and strategies for making the most out of your supply chain visit, whether you're a first-timer or a seasoned traveler. The discussion covers essential topics, including the value of in-person supplier visits, the nuances of navigating the Canton Fair, cultural considerations when working with Chinese vendors, and overcoming common challenges encountered during international business trips. Lara, Glaiza, and April offer actionable advice on optimizing your approach to maximize the value of your visit and strengthen your global supply chain operations.  Key Topics Covered: The benefits of visiting suppliers in China for improved cost optimization, quality control, and vendor relationships Practical tips for navigating the Canton Fair, from planning your day to organizing vendor visits Cultural awareness tips for conducting business with Chinese vendors Challenges and lessons learned from previous trips, including time management and staying organized Developing a post-visit action plan to document findings and align on next steps Memorable Quotes:  "Seeing how products are made firsthand opens up so many opportunities for negotiation and cost savings." – Glaiza "In supply chain, preparation is everything. From comfortable shoes to the right data, being ready ensures your trip delivers real value." – April "When you visit vendors in person, you're not just inspecting products—you’re building relationships that will fuel your supply chain for years to come." – Lara Resources Mentioned: Move Supply Chain: Providing global supply chain solutions, including vendor management, product sourcing, and logistics support. Canton Fair: One of the largest trade fairs in the world, held biannually in Guangzhou, China, where businesses can explore extensive sourcing opportunities. Connect with Us:  Lara on X: @supplychainlara Glaiza on X: @glaizailagan Guest Highlights:Glaiza Ilagan: CEO of Move Supply Chain with over 15 years of experience in supply chain management and vendor relations, sharing insights on international vendor visits and partnership building. April Loquillano: Supply chain manager specializing in product sourcing and inventory management, preparing for her first trip to China with a focus on strategic sourcing.