In episode 234 of the China Manufacturing Decoded podcast, we explore ensuring that you get accurate prototypes, a crucial step in product development. Our host, Renaud, and Agilian's new product development head and experienced product engineer Paul Adams, discuss the importance of getting good parts for prototypes to avoid wasting time and resources during product development. If you're developing a new product, for example, a consumer electronic product, a mechanical device, or an electrical home appliance, this episode provides invaluable advice to ensure your prototypes are as close to production-ready as possible. Tune in to learn how to streamline your prototype process and avoid common pitfalls!   Show Sections 00:00 - Introduction and greetings. 01:31 - What are the 3 main types of prototypes during product development? 04:21 -Why is it so important to ensure you get the right parts with the right dimensions, the right surface finish, the right properties, etc, for your prototype? 07:15 - What are good tips and best practices for product development teams? 12:22 - Communication with Suppliers. 14:35 - Supplier Capabilities. 17:05 - Importance of delivery 19:23 - Incoming QC. 23:28 - Root cause analysis on defective parts. 25: 55 - Finalizing prototype assembly and creating work instructions. 30:14 - Provide feedback to the supplier. 32:50 - A caveat for mass production. 33:43 - Wrapping up.   Related content... Prototype Dimensions: 7 Steps To Get Accurate Prototypes Delivered   Get in touch with us Connect with us on LinkedInSend us a tweet @sofeastPrefer Facebook? Check us out on FBContact us via Sofeast's contact pageSubscribe to our YouTube channel

Adrian and Renaud delve into the intricate journey of taking a consumer electronic product from concept to market. They discuss the various milestones, tasks, and example costs involved in this process. From the initial product concept and design to prototyping, compliance testing, and finally mass production, they provide a comprehensive overview of what it takes to bring a new product to the shelves. Additionally, they highlight common pitfalls and mistakes to avoid, ensuring a smoother path to success for any aspiring product developer. Whether you're new to the industry or looking to refine your approach, this episode is packed with valuable insights and practical advice. Hit play to listen to this discussion that helps you understand the complexities of product development and manufacturing in Asia.   Show Sections 00:00 - Introduction and greetings. 04:29 - Typical cost drivers. 09:15 - Getting to a mature product concept (requirements, design, renderings).  15:18 - Going through prototyping. 22:54 - Tooling. 26:01 - Pilot run and compliance and safety certifications. 27:46 - Production and logistics. 30:43 - Common mistakes made during product development. 37:14 - Wrapping up.   Related content... Podcast series about Vetting Chinese suppliersThe example of the JuiceroWhat's the investment required to bring a product to market?Kickstarter projects that failed after promising amazing productsHow to calculate landed costWhat is an NRE Cost (Non-Recurring Engineering)?Get help from Sofeast to bring your new product to market step-by-step   Get in touch with us Connect with us on LinkedInSend us a tweet @sofeastPrefer Facebook? Check us out on FBContact us via Sofeast's contact pageSubscribe to our YouTube channel

In episode 232 of the China Manufacturing Decoded podcast, Renaud does a deep dive into Christopher Mims' book, Arriving Today: From Factory to Front Door, Why Everything Has Changed About How and What We Buy. Mims, a Wall Street Journal journalist, explores the complexities of global supply chains that bring products from factories in Asia to our doorsteps. Renaud focuses on the macroeconomic and macrosocial effects of automation discussed in the book. He highlights the advancements in technology, labor dynamics, and logistical challenges within Amazon's fulfillment centers. The conversation goes into how automation impacts labor productivity, employment, and the nature of work in these highly automated environments. Renaud also addresses the implications of these changes on the economy and workers' health, shedding light on the balance between increased efficiency and the potential for higher injury rates. Join us to discover whether this book is for you and gain valuable insights into the evolving landscape of global supply chains and automation. Listen and consider how automation shapes the future of manufacturing and distribution.   Show Sections 00:00 - Introduction and greetings. 02:14 - Exploring Amazon Fulfillment Centers. 12:47 - Economic Implications of Automation. 20:42 - Automation's effect on employee health. 28:00 - What could Amazon do to improve? 29:01 - Wrapping up.   Related content... Buy the book and read it yourself here: Arriving Today   Get in touch with us Connect with us on LinkedInSend us a tweet @sofeastPrefer Facebook? Check us out on FBContact us via Sofeast's contact pageSubscribe to our YouTube channel

In Episode 231 of the podcast, Adrian and Renaud tackle listener questions on supply chain management. Renaud offers expert advice on ensuring a stable supply of components, managing lead times, and handling inventory and warehousing. From strategic procurement to vendor-managed inventory, get practical tips to optimize your supply chain operations. Tune in to gain valuable insights on effective supply chain management in Asia. Show Sections 00:00 - Introduction and insights on Penang in Malaysia's electronics industry. 05:13 - Supply Chain and Logistics Questions. 05:45 - Ensuring Stable Component Supply. 17:39 - Managing Lead Times. 27:07 - Handling Inventory and Warehousing. 34:34 - Wrapping up.   Related content... Ford mentioned: 3 Supply Chain Risk Reduction Strategies: Integration VS Diversification VS InventoryWhat Is Vendor Managed Inventory (VMI)?What types of supply chain management solutions do Sofeast offer?End Of Life Electronic Components: Managing The Risk Of Them Being In Your ProductHow To Manage the Bill of Materials, from Initial Design to Mass Production   Get in touch with us Connect with us on LinkedInSend us a tweet @sofeastPrefer Facebook? Check us out on FBContact us via Sofeast's contact pageSubscribe to our YouTube channel

Welcome to episode 230 of China Manufacturing Decoded, brought to you by Sofeast! This week, your host Adrian and Sofeast senior engineer and new product development head Paul Adams take a journey into the fascinating world of silicone compression molding. In this episode, you'll learn why this production process is so popular for silicone parts and products. They cover: The silicone compression molding processIts applications in developing new productsIts suitability for both low-volume and mass production.Why, due to its unique properties such as temperature resistance, chemical stability, and flexibility, silicone is an essential material in various industries.The benefits of silicone compression molding over other molding techniques like plastic injection moldingSome common challenges and considerations.Expert tips and answers to frequently asked questions that can help you get the most out of silicone compression molding Whether you're in the medical, automotive, or consumer goods industry, this episode provides valuable insights into optimizing your manufacturing process. Tune in now to discover why this versatile material and efficient production process might be the perfect fit for your next project. For more information or to get in touch, visit our website at sofeast.com. We'd love to hear your feedback and topic suggestions for future episodes!   Show Sections 00:00 - Greetings and introduction. 04:41 - What is the Silicone Compression Molding process? 09:57 - Comparing silicone compression molding to other molding processes. 13:26 - Silicone's benefits as a production material. 22:11 - Does compression molding for silicon also allow complex geometries and designs? 25:14 - Industries that rely on silicone parts. 27:45 - Challenges and considerations when producing silicone products by compression molding. 34:40 - FAQs and tips. 44:04 - Wrapping up.   Related content... Silicone Rubber Compression Molding: A Guide to Getting StartedWatch our Silicone Rubber Material Info Video PlaylistHow To Define Silicone or Plastic Finishes For New Products [Whitepaper]The benefits of silicone as a production material and how it compares to common plastics [Whitepaper]The Shore Hardness Test for Silicone and TPE ItemsExploring The Benefits Of Rapid Prototyping And Rapid Tooling [Podcast]Get your parts and products made with Silicone Compression Molding at our subsidiary Agilian Plastic & Molds   Get in touch with us Connect with us on LinkedInSend us a tweet @sofeastPrefer Facebook? Check us out on FBContact us via Sofeast's contact pageSubscribe to our YouTube channel

In this episode, we go into the intricacies of the Chinese legal system and explore the legal protections available for buyers who receive bad or fake products from Chinese suppliers so you can protect your business effectively. Sofeast CEO Renaud Anjoran is joined by Jessica Xu, a senior trial litigator and legal counsel for various government bodies and private enterprises, and Clive Greenwood, a senior compliance counsel and award-winning technical legal consultant both from Liangma Law Firm in Shenzhen. They discuss advice for Western companies facing quality disputes with Chinese suppliers, emphasizing the importance of due diligence, clear communication, and establishing rigorous quality agreements. Jessica and Clive also shed light on the legal recourse available in China, including the process of taking legal action, the significance of evidence, and the potential to sue for consequential damages. Real-life case examples illustrate the challenges and strategies involved in navigating these disputes.   Show Sections 00:00 - Greetings and introduction of our guests. 02:35 - What advice is there for Western companies in a dispute over product quality? 07:29 - Pursuing Legal Action in China. 12:03 - Suing for consequential damages. 16:44 - How legal cases where a foreign buyer takes Chinese suppliers to court work. 23:08 - Actions against fake certifications. 29:04 - Escalating to litigation. 31:25 - Conclusion. 33:53 - Wrapping up.   Related content... Risks A China-Based Manufacturer Faces When Making Products That Don’t Comply With The Export Country’s Laws? (Seminar)Possible Risks and Insurance Manufacturers and Buyers need in China [Podcast]How to Claim Compensation from a Supplier? | Disputes With Chinese Suppliers Q&A (Volume 18)Get support from Sofeast to cover your bases with Combined Supplier Due Diligence Checks (Best Results & Value)Visit the Liangma firm's website here.   Get in touch with us Connect with us on LinkedInSend us a tweet @sofeastPrefer Facebook? Check us out on FBContact us via Sofeast's contact pageSubscribe to our YouTube channel

Paul Adams, senior engineer and head of new product development at Sofeast, spills the beans on 3 key product design optimizations and best practices that it pays to follow to have a successful product launch, namely: How to optimize the design for cost, size, and weight?What are the best practices for PCB design and layout?How to ensure the product's functionality and reliability?  Show Sections 00:00 - Greetings and introduction. 02:34 - 1. How to optimize the design for cost, size, and weight? 02:51 - Optimizing for cost. 10:51 - Optimizing for size. 13:40 - Optimizing for weight. 17:29 - 2. What are the best practices for PCB design and layout? 26:31 - DFM for PCBs. 31:47 - 3. How to ensure the product's functionality and reliability? 43:51 - Wrapping up.   Related content... The Design for X Approach: 12 Common ExamplesDesign for Reliability Secrets [Podcast]How to Choose the Correct Outdoor Plastics for your next Product? (4 Guides)DFM for PCBA – 40+ Improvements18 Steps for Selecting Electronic Components the Right Way   Get in touch with us Connect with us on LinkedInSend us a tweet @sofeastPrefer Facebook? Check us out on FBContact us via Sofeast's contact pageSubscribe to our YouTube channel

Join Renaud and Adrian as they talk about the intricacies of prototyping and testing during new product development. They discuss 2 common FAQs from customers: How many prototype iterations will be needed?What are the essential tests for ensuring product safety and compliance?Renaud explains how different product complexities affect the prototyping cycle and highlights the importance of simulations in advanced industries like aerospace. He also emphasizes the need for thorough documentation and clear communication with manufacturers to streamline the development process. Furthermore, the episode explores the various types of tests required to validate a product's safety and compliance, distinguishing between simple consumer products and highly regulated industries like medical devices and automotive parts. Listeners will gain valuable insights into best practices for preparing to work with manufacturers and ensuring their products meet regulatory standards.   Show Sections 00:00 - Introduction and greetings. 00:40 - Exploring Prototyping and Testing. 05:59 - Considerations for Product Development. 15:36 - Factors Influencing Number of Iterations. 18:30 - Preparing for Working with Manufacturers. 22:58 - Importance of Documentation and Clarity. 25:52 - Ensuring Safety and Compliance. 37:46 - Awareness of Industry Regulations. 42:31 - Conclusion and Next Steps.   Related content... Prototyping Process To Test & Refine a New Product DesignPrototyping Essentials: The 5 Key Uses of Prototyping Equipment [Podcast]How Many Product Samples Are Required For Reliability & Compliance Testing?”Help! I Have No Idea What Reliability Testing My Product Needs.”Get help from Sofeast to develop your prototypes   Get in touch with us Contact us via Sofeast's contact pageConnect with us on LinkedInSubscribe to our YouTube channelSend us an X @sofeastPrefer Facebook? Check us out on FB

In this episode of China Manufacturing Decoded, Adrian and Renaud discuss the evolving role of software in the development and manufacturing of electronic products. They explore how software has become a significant source of competitive advantage, often surpassing hardware in importance. Using examples from smartphones to cars, they illustrate how software drives innovation, user experience, and brand differentiation. The discussion also highlights the strategic shift from hardware-centric to software-centric designs, inspired by insights from Richard Rumelt's book, "Good Strategy, Bad Strategy." Whether you're a manufacturer or a tech enthusiast, this episode offers valuable perspectives on the critical balance between hardware and software in today's electronic products.   Show Sections 00:00 - Introduction to the Importance of Software in Electronic Products. 05:38 - Evolution of Chip Design at Intel. 10:14 - Transition from Vertical to Horizontal Structure in Computers. 13:19 - Challenges and Expenses of Hardware Modifications. 15:24 - Advantages of Software Updates over Hardware Changes. 19:19 - Increasing Importance of Software in the Automotive Industry. 22:48 - Utilizing Software for Differentiation in Products. 26:06 - Building Brand Recognition through Software Interaction. 26:55 - Wrapping up.   Related content... Purchase the book referred to: Good Strategy Bad Strategy: The Difference and Why It Matters8 Must-Follow Tips for Software Companies Developing a New Hardware ProductCan Sofeast develop our electronic product’s firmware or mobile app?   Get in touch with us Contact us via Sofeast's contact pageConnect with us on LinkedInSubscribe to our YouTube channelSend us an X @sofeastPrefer Facebook? Check us out on FB

Join us as we delve into the five main uses of prototyping equipment, including 3D printers, CNC milling, and more. Our host, Renaud, is joined by Paul Adams, head of the new product development team, to explore why prototyping is crucial for design houses, manufacturing companies, and product developers alike. In this episode, we break down the distinctions between prototyping and production equipment and discuss the importance of having in-house prototyping tools. We cover five key uses of prototyping equipment, including: Creating functional prototypes to validate concepts and improve design.Developing visually appealing prototypes to enhance user experience and aesthetics.Combining look-like and work-like prototypes for comprehensive testing.Conducting stress testing to ensure reliability and compliance.Utilizing bridge production runs to meet early demand and maintain trust. We also touch on how prototyping equipment can be used to create production tooling, such as jigs and fixtures, to streamline the manufacturing process. Tune in to gain valuable insights into the world of prototyping and how it can benefit your product development journey. Don't miss out on this informative discussion that will help you understand the nuances of prototyping and its vital role in bringing new products to market efficiently and effectively.   Show Sections 00:00 - Greetings and introduction. 13:26 - The Importance of Functional Prototypes. 18:29 - Designing Look-Like Prototypes. 32:02 - Stress Testing Prototypes. 43:45 - Bridge Production Run Overview. 44:43 - Utilizing Prototyping Equipment for Production Tooling. 52:00 - Wrapping up.   Related content... Prototyping Process To Test & Refine a New Product DesignHow Many Prototypes Are Needed Before We Get ‘Perfection?’Exploring The Benefits Of Rapid Prototyping And Rapid Tooling [Podcast]Do A Bridge Production Rather Than Rushing Into Mass ProductionGet support from Sofeast to do your Prototype Development   Get in touch with us Connect with us on LinkedInSend us a tweet @sofeastPrefer Facebook? Check us out on FBContact us via Sofeast's contact pageSubscribe to our YouTube channel

Join hosts Renaud and Adrian as they discuss the ins and outs of factory audits and how to select the right one based on your specific requirements. In this episode, Renaud shares insights from his recent experiences and highlights the latest developments at Sofeast Group, including the expansion of their plastic injection molding facility. The main focus of the discussion is on different types of factory audits such as quality system audits, social compliance audits, and environmental system audits. They explain what each audit entails, why they are important, and how to choose the most appropriate audit for your situation. Whether you are sourcing a new supplier or ensuring compliance with existing partners, this episode offers valuable guidance to help you make informed decisions and manage risks effectively. Tune in for expert advice and practical tips to enhance your manufacturing processes in Asia.   Show Sections 00:00 - Greetings and discussing the expansion of our plastic injection molding facility. 02:32 - Selecting the Right Factory Audit. 09:38 - Diverse Approaches to Environmental Audits. 14:14 - Focus on Quality System Audits. 16:56 - Social Compliance Audits and Risks. 22:21 - Initial Factory Evaluation vs. Quality System Audit 25:58 - Factors Beyond Quality Systems in Supplier Selection. 27:37 - Dealing with Factories that Restrict Access 34:59 - Factory audits as part of the new product development toolkit 36:36 - Wrapping up.   Related content... Factory audits and quality inspections: DifferencesChoose from our different factory auditsHow To Choose Which Factory Audit You Need?Get help from Sofeast's product engineering team to bring your product to market: New Product Introduction in China Solution   Get in touch with us Connect with us on LinkedInSend us a tweet @sofeastPrefer Facebook? Check us out on FBContact us via Sofeast's contact pageSubscribe to our YouTube channel

Renaud hosts and is joined again by regular guest, Andrew Amirnovin. They talk about where China has come from quality-wise and the forces that aligned to transform Chinese products from poor to great quality in the past two decades or so.   Show Sections 00:00 - Greetings and introduction. 03:46 - What happened to transform China-made products from low to high quality over the past couple of decades or so? 17:05 - Why the foreign buyer's role cannot be underestimated. 22:09 - 4 key drivers of improved quality. 32:59 - Chinese ODMs and OEMs have an incentive NOT to provide poor-quality products. 39:06 - Which products have benefited from the most reliability and quality improvements? 44:47 - What quality challenges remain for Chinese products? 59:09 - Wrapping up.   Related content... Paul Midler's book: 'Poorly Made In China'Documenting Your Company’s Quality Standard into the DetailsThe Rise Of The Dragon: Exploring China’s Technology Dominance [Podcast]What do the USA’s May ’24 China tariffs mean for importers? [Podcast]IP Protection when buying from China (Feat. Dan Harris, China Law Blog) [Podcast]Download > Ultimate Guide To Sourcing From China And Developing Your Suppliers [eBook]   Get in touch with us Connect with us on LinkedInSend us a tweet @sofeastPrefer Facebook? Check us out on FBContact us via Sofeast's contact pageSubscribe to our YouTube channel

Adrian is on hosting duty and is joined by Sofeast's Head of Supply Chain Management, Kate. Rising shipping costs (sea, air, and otherwise) are an issue facing importers from Asia now in 2024, but what's causing it and are there any tips to help you cope? Also, in a second topic, Kate dispels the confusion about FOB vs FCA, explaining why the more common incoterm (at least when buying from Chinese manufacturers) isn't necessarily the best for you!   Show Sections 00:00 - Greetings and introduction. 01:23 - Shipping costs from China are spiking. How much are they now? 06:49 - What is causing the surging prices? 16:16 - What's the effect on shipping to Europe? 18:56 - FOB vs FCA Incoterms. 29:35 - Wrapping up.   Related content... The Red Sea attacks on shipping are still happeningBrazil has increased the tariff on imported Chinese EVsCheck the various supply chain management services we can help you with, including logisticsTypes of Incoterms [Guide]What do the USA’s May ’24 China tariffs mean for importers? [Podcast]   Get in touch with us Connect with us on LinkedInSend us a tweet @sofeastPrefer Facebook? Check us out on FBContact us via Sofeast's contact pageSubscribe to our YouTube channel   Subscribe to the podcast  There are more episodes to come, so remember to subscribe! You can do so in your favorite podcast apps here and don't forget to give us a 5-star rating, please: Apple PodcastsSpotifyTuneInAmazon PodcastsDeezeriHeartRADIOPlayerFMListen NotesPodcast AddictPodchaser

Adrian and Renaud get together to talk about Elon Musk's insights and philosophy into developing and bringing new products to market (from an interview by 'Everyday Astronaut' on YouTube at his launch facility a few years back). He shares his philosophies on new product introductions which cover some common sense topics that manufacturers of almost any product should bear in mind.   Show Sections 00:00 - Greetings and introduction to Musk. 07:20 - What can we learn from Musk? 11:08 - The Musk NPI philosophy. 16:08 - 1. Make Your Requirements Less Dumb. 20:44 - 2. Delete Parts or Processes, and Simplify/Optimize. 29:05 - 3. Accelerate cycle times. 32:46 - 4. Automate. 36:30 - Wrapping up.   Related content... The NPI process (Including graphic)Why does new product development take so long?7 Key NPI Tasks To Do Before You Take Your Product Into Production [Podcast]Sofeast NPI process explainer videoElon Musk Biography: DFM Learnings and more!Get help from Sofeast's product engineering team to bring your product to market: New Product Introduction in China Solution   Get in touch with us Connect with us on LinkedInSend us a tweet @sofeastPrefer Facebook? Check us out on FBContact us via Sofeast's contact pageSubscribe to our YouTube channel

Renaud hosts and is joined by Andrew Amirnovin, Sofeast's product reliability head, and they're looking at how Apple tests iPhone reliability and durability. Recently Marques Brownlee shared some videos from within Apple's testing lab and interviews with their head of hardware engineering and the insights were interesting. It turns out that Andrew has also visited Apple's lab and he shares his own insights about that, and the pair discuss what you can learn from the way Apple do things.   Show Sections 00:00 - Greetings and introduction. 01:08 - The advent of the iPhone in 2006 and the testing it required. 08:48 - Worries about reliability: What did Andrew learn at Apple's testing lab back then? 13:40 - What can we learn from the tests in Brownlee's recent videos (June 24) from Apple's labs? 22:00 - What kind of drop test were they doing? 26:07 - What are the different drop surfaces used for? 29:10 - Apple's hardware engineering head wants to make a product that 'never fails.' Realistic? 31:49 - Is repairability better than durability? 36:21 - Wrapping up and closing questions.   Related content... Marques Brownlee posts on X about visiting the Apple labs (Thread)JOHN DEERE AND NEBRASKA’S RIGHT TO REPAIR, THE AFTERMATH OF A FAILED PIECE OF LEGISLATIONRight To Repair: Blessing or Curse for Manufacturers?Robust Design: Enhancing Product Quality and Performance   Get in touch with us Connect with us on LinkedInSend us a tweet @sofeastPrefer Facebook? Check us out on FBContact us via Sofeast's contact pageSubscribe to our YouTube channel

Adrian hosts and Renaud goes deep into design reviews which can really save your skin by identifying and fixing problems that can lead to defects and failures. What kinds of product design reviews can be done to reduce problems, and when during the product design and development process should they be done?   Show Sections 00:00 - Greetings and introduction. 02:25 - Why design reviews are important. 12:02 - The different types of reviews and when they're done: Phase 1. Early stages 17:18 - Phase 2. Proof-of-concept and feasibility study. 22:22 - Phase 3. Design FMEA when the design starts to take shape. 28:47 - When to do Design for Reliability / Manufacturing reviews? 34:08 - Process FMEA just before the design is locked and tooling is made. 37:22 - Wrapping up.   Related content... The Benefits of a Feasibility Study (during new product development)dFMEA: When to use it and how to get best results [Podcast]The Design for X Approach: 12 Common ExamplesProcess FMEA: Template, Use Cases, and ExamplesFMEA (Failure Modes and Effects Analysis)Get help from Sofeast: On-Site Process FMEA + Process Control Plan Workshops   Get in touch with us Connect with us on LinkedInSend us a tweet @sofeastPrefer Facebook? Check us out on FBContact us via Sofeast's contact pageSubscribe to our YouTube channel   Subscribe to the podcast  There are more episodes to come, so remember to subscribe! You can do so in your favorite podcast apps here and don't forget to give us a 5-star rating, please: Apple PodcastsSpotifyTuneInAmazon PodcastsDeezeriHeartRADIOPlayerFMListen NotesPodcast AddictPodchaser

Renaud hosts and is joined by Fredrik Gronkvist, founder of Productmkr.com, to discuss near-sourcing from Europe + Turkey (and Mexico for North American buyers) VS buying from China. Fredrik has done a lot of research on how to source from China alternatives and he now offers a supplier database for subscribers to help make finding the right option easier. Here he shares his advice on near-sourcing and how it differs from the traditional approach of buying from China.   Show Sections 00:00 - Greetings and introduction. 04:14 - What are the key challenges importers face when near sourcing? 08:14 - How to improve your chances of receiving a response from non-Chinese suppliers? 11:04 - What is the impact of near sourcing on MOQs and lead times? 17:03 - Does near sourcing reduce quality and compliance risks? 22:40 - Does it make sense for all types of products? 27:23 - Is the process of identifying and screening potential suppliers in Europe/Turkey the same as in China or Vietnam? 32:19 - How should buyers approach sourcing from nearby countries? (Summary) 33:24 - Wrapping up.   Related content... Read Productmkr.com's analysis: Manufacturing in Europe vs China: A ComparisonNearshoring To Mexico. An Alternative To China?India Gaining Popularity over China as a Near-Shoring and Sourcing DestinationGlobalism 2.0: North American Importers To Move Supply Chains Out Of China Soon?   Get in touch with us Connect with us on LinkedInSend us a tweet @sofeastPrefer Facebook? Check us out on FBContact us via Sofeast's contact pageSubscribe to our YouTube channel   Subscribe to the podcast  There are more episodes to come, so remember to subscribe! You can do so in your favorite podcast apps here and don't forget to give us a 5-star rating, please: Apple PodcastsSpotifyTuneInAmazon PodcastsDeezeriHeartRADIOPlayerFMListen NotesPodcast AddictPodchaser

Adrian and Renaud are back to examine the recent May 14th news of new China tariffs being implemented by the Biden administration with the overall aim of reducing trade with China whom many in America see as flooding the market with cheap exports that damage American businesses who can't compete. EVs, solar panels, medical devices, steel and aluminum, and more are in the firing line. So, how does this affect US importers and the relationship between the two giants? Let's find out...   Show Sections 00:00 - Greetings and introduction 03:26 - When did China tariffs start being used? 09:46 - Why add more tariffs now? 16:20 - What does China have to say in response to this? 20:45 - Which products and materials have been given these tariffs? 29:51 - The USA's target areas for improvement. 33:06 - Will Chinese companies find other customers instead? 36:36 - If you're an American buyer likely to be affected by these tariffs, what can you do? 39:51 - Wrapping up.   Related content... U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai to Take Further Action on China Tariffs After Releasing Statutory Four-Year ReviewHe Helped Trump Remake Global Trade. His Work Isn’t Done.Has the US declared economic war on China?”Enterprise China” – China’s Strategy for Economic Success (Author Interview with Drs. Allen J. Morrison & J. Stewart Black)   Get in touch with us Connect with us on LinkedInSend us a tweet @sofeastPrefer Facebook? Check us out on FBContact us via Sofeast's contact pageSubscribe to our YouTube channel   Subscribe to the podcast  There are more episodes to come, so remember to subscribe! You can do so in your favorite podcast apps here and don't forget to give us a 5-star rating, please: Apple PodcastsSpotifyTuneInAmazon PodcastsDeezeriHeartRADIOPlayerFMListen NotesPodcast AddictPodchaser

Renaud welcomes Dan Harris, Partner of the Seattle-headquartered and globally officed Harris Sliwoski LLP and long-time writer of the China Law Blog, to the podcast! Over the years he has shared so much valuable information for importers who buy from and manufacture in China; a key topic being keeping IP safe when purchasing from Chinese suppliers. So in this episode, we delve into Dan's decades of assisting Western companies navigate doing business with Chinese suppliers and get his tips on common IP risks and steps you can take to protect your business.   Show Sections 00:00 - Greetings and introduction 03:27 - What are the major risks to IP concerning working with Chinese companies that Western businesses should look out for? 07:58 - Western companies consistently underestimate the risks of their technology and IP being used against them. 13:39 - Has the Chinese legal system evolved for the better (or worse) regarding IP protection? 20:11 - Protection 1: The right partner. 28:11 - Protection 2: The right contract. 30:21 - Protection 3. The right protections. 38:26 - Wrapping up.   Related content... Great reads from China Law Blog: China NNN Agreements: The Ten Most Asked Questions AnsweredChina Trademark Protection: Is Your Chinese Manufacturer a Friend or a Foe?How to Avoid China Manufacturing Problems: A PrimerChina Due Diligence: NOT Optional You should also check out these resources from Sofeast: Sofeast's FREE guide: IP Protection in China when Developing Your New Product [Importer’s Guide]Video presentation: Legal Agreements & Tools Used By Manufacturers For Protecting Product IPSofeast Combined Supplier Due Diligence Checks (Best Results & Value)   Get in touch with us Connect with us on LinkedInSend us a tweet @sofeastPrefer Facebook? Check us out on FBContact us via Sofeast's contact pageSubscribe to our YouTube channel   Subscribe to the podcast  There are more episodes to come, so remember to subscribe! You can do so in your favorite podcast apps here and don't forget to give us a 5-star rating, please: Apple PodcastsSpotifyTuneInAmazon PodcastsDeezeriHeartRADIOPlayerFMListen NotesPodcast AddictPodchaser

Renaud hosts and is joined by Sofeast Group senior engineer, Paul Adams, to discuss how to go from a design to mass-producing your plastic injection molded parts, first following the proven pre-production pilot run approach to ensure risks are kept to a minimum. You'll learn what should be optimized and what should not be skipped, even if sometimes getting to market sooner seems tempting.   Show Sections 00:00 - Greetings and introduction 01:49 - Why is an injection molding pilot run important? 05:05 - What are the steps involved? 09:53 - Why 'metal safe' is your goal after the trials. 12:39 - The supplier still needs to optimize the tooling  25:01 - Optimizing the injection mold press (machine). 34:55 - Keeping records of parameter settings helps to control the process. 39:04 - Wrapping up.   Related content... The Plastic Injection Molding Process: Top Questions and AnswersPlastic injection molding explainer videosInjection Mold Textures: How to Choose the Right One?Mold Tech Texture BookGet help from our subsidiary to make your plastic parts in South China   Get in touch with us Connect with us on LinkedInSend us a tweet @sofeastPrefer Facebook? Check us out on FBContact us via Sofeast's contact pageSubscribe to our YouTube channel   Subscribe to the podcast  There are more episodes to come, so remember to subscribe! You can do so in your favorite podcast apps here and don't forget to give us a 5-star rating, please: Apple PodcastsSpotifyTuneInAmazon PodcastsDeezeriHeartRADIOPlayerFMListen NotesPodcast AddictPodchaser