Imports from China to Germany

Whether electronics, metal parts, plastic products, consumer goods, or textiles: China is one of the most important procurement markets for German companies. We explain how importing from China to Germany works, what importers should pay attention to, and how typical mistakes can be avoided.

Hardly any other country offers a comparable level of vertical integration and scalability as China. At the same time, importing from China has become more complex. New regulatory requirements, increasing demands on quality and documentation, and a dynamic customs environment present companies with growing challenges.

This means that anyone who wants to import products from China today needs more than just low prices. Clear processes, reliable suppliers, and a clear understanding of legal and customs requirements are crucial.

Why imports from China continue to boom

China is still considered the world's workbench. The country has specialized industrial clusters, well-established supply chains, and high production capacity. For many companies, importing from China is therefore economically attractive, especially for series production and standardized products. Despite geopolitical tensions and increasing discussions about supply chain resilience, China remains a key trading partner for Germany.

7 key reasons for importing from China:

1. China alone has increased its share of global production from 5% in 1995 to 32% today.

2. In numerous industrial clusters, suppliers, manufacturing, logistics, and quality assurance are closely interlinked, enabling short lead times and high scalability.

3. China has a vertical range of manufacture that is difficult to replicate in other procurement markets, particularly for electronics, metal, and plastic products.

4. Despite rising wage and energy costs, China remains competitive due to its infrastructure, level of automation, and availability of skilled workers.

5. China is once again Germany's largest trading partner and most important supplier country.

6. The bilateral foreign trade volume stands at €185.9 billion, with imports from China recently rising again by 8.5%.

7. In practice, strategies such as “China plus One” usually lead to risk diversification rather than a complete replacement of China as a procurement market.

Significance of trade with China for importers

China has been one of the most important import countries for German companies for years, which is why trade relations between the two countries are closely intertwined. Small and medium-sized enterprises in particular benefit from the combination of cost structure, manufacturing expertise, and flexibility.

At the same time, the framework conditions are changing: developments in customs policy, stricter product liability, and increasing transparency requirements are increasing the organizational effort involved. For importers, this means that those who want to remain competitive must strategically control their imports from China and actively manage risks. A professionally designed procurement process that neatly integrates supplier selection, quality assurance, and import processing is essential.

Which products can be imported from China?

In principle, many product groups are suitable for import from China. Procurement is particularly useful for products with clear specifications, medium to high quantities, and reproducible manufacturing processes.

Electronics and electronic assemblies

China offers a high degree of vertical integration and well-established supply chains, enabling electronic components and assemblies to be manufactured efficiently in series.

Machinery and metal parts

Thanks to large production capacities and modern manufacturing technologies, metal and machine components can be produced economically based on clear drawings.

Plastic products and injection molded parts

China is a leader in injection molding and a competitive production location, especially for standardized parts and larger quantities.

Consumer goods and textiles

Extensive production networks enable large volumes, but require clear quality and compliance specifications when importing into Germany.

Products with very short delivery times, highly fluctuating demand, or unclear technical requirements are less suitable. In these cases, the risk of quality problems and delays increases significantly.

Finding suppliers in China: What importers should look out for

Finding suppliers is one of the most critical steps when importing from China. Many companies use platforms, trade fairs, or direct contacts. This can work, but it also carries risks.

Common problems include a lack of transparency regarding production capacities, a lack of quality standards, and misunderstandings in communication. Cultural differences can also distort requirements.

A structured selection process therefore includes reviewing manufacturing expertise and capacities, comparing technical specifications, and establishing clear agreements on quality and testing processes.

Line Up supports companies with an established network of verified manufacturers in the Far East. Local presence and experience in supplier selection allow risks to be reduced at an early stage.

What are the requirements for importing goods into Germany?

Product requirements and documentation obligations

Anyone who imports goods from China assumes legal responsibility as an importer in Germany. This includes compliance with all applicable product and safety requirements. Missing or incomplete documentation often leads to delays or problems during import. Depending on the product, the following may be required, among other things:

• Technical documentation

• Certificates of conformity

• Markings such as CE or material specifications

Ensuring quality for imports from China

Quality does not begin with the incoming goods inspection. Structured quality controls are essential, especially for new suppliers, in order to avoid complaints and rework. Clear specifications, sampling, and defined testing processes prior to shipment are crucial. These include:

• Initial sample inspections

• Series approvals

• Random sampling and final inspections

What to consider regarding import duties, taxes, and documents

When importing from China, customs duties, taxes, and documentation requirements play a key role. The basis for customs clearance is the correct customs tariff number, as this determines which import duty is levied from China. In addition, import sales tax is usually payable on imports into Germany and is based on the value of the goods including transport costs.

Complete and correct documentation of the delivery is equally important. This includes, in particular, the commercial invoice, the packing list, and the necessary freight and transport documents. Depending on the product and origin, proofs of origin may also be necessary, for example, to qualify for customs concessions or to meet regulatory requirements.

Errors or discrepancies in customs declarations often lead to delays, additional costs, or additional payments. As customs and import regulations change regularly, it is essential for importers to continuously review the current requirements and adapt the import process accordingly.

How to import products from China

1. Define the product clearly

Describe the product as specifically as possible: dimensions, materials, surfaces, tolerances, functions, packaging, labeling, and desired standards. The clearer the specification, the lower the risk of production errors.

2. Define quality and compliance requirements

Define the applicable quality criteria (e.g., permissible deviations or scope of testing) and the regulatory requirements that must be met, such as labeling or proof of conformity for import into Germany.

3. Search for and prequalify suppliers

Identify suitable manufacturers and check whether they meet your technical and organizational requirements. Important factors include experience with similar products, production capacity, references, and communication skills.

4. Compare offers and negotiate

Ensure that offers are truly comparable: price, minimum order quantity, tooling costs, delivery time, Incoterms, payment terms, sample costs, and quality agreements should be clearly documented.

5. Carry out sampling

Have samples produced and check them against your specifications. Only approve production once the material, function, dimensions, workmanship, and packaging are satisfactory. Any changes should be confirmed in writing before series production begins.

6. Start series production and monitor closely

Series production begins once the samples have been approved. Clarify milestones, interim approvals, and communication routines so that any deviations do not only become apparent at the end.

7. Perform quality control before shipping

Perform an inspection before delivery (either random or comprehensive, depending on the risk). The aim is to identify defects early on and arrange for rework before the goods leave the factory.

8. Prepare shipping, transport, and documents

Select the mode of transport and route, agree on the Incoterms, and ensure that all documents are complete (commercial invoice, packing list, transport documents, certificates of origin if applicable). Mistakes made here often cause delays.

9. Organize customs clearance and import to Germany

Clarify the customs tariff number, import duty, and import sales tax, and ensure that the customs declaration is correct. Accurate data is crucial to avoid additional payments and downtime.

10. Check incoming goods and evaluate supplier performance

Check the goods upon arrival on a random or risk-based basis and document any deviations. Use the results to evaluate suppliers and improve the process for future orders.

Common mistakes made when importing from China

Many problems with importing from China can be traced back to recurring mistakes. These include unclear specifications, a lack of quality controls, or an excessive focus on price.

Underestimated additional costs for customs, transport, or rework also often lead to surprises. Another common mistake is communication problems that lead to false expectations.

Last but not least, there is often a lack of clear accountability. Anyone who imports products bears legal responsibility and should actively manage this.

Implementing imports from China safely and economically

China remains a key procurement market for German companies. The advantages are undisputed, but importing has become more challenging. Today, import success is determined less by the product itself and more by the quality of the entire process.

Anyone wishing to import products from China should therefore professionally coordinate supplier selection, quality assurance, and customs clearance. This minimizes risks and maximizes economic potential.

Would you like to set up your China imports in a structured, transparent, and predictable way? Line Up supports companies along the entire procurement chain — talk to us and create a solid foundation for your international procurement.