Over on MFG.com, the Interim Tax Rates For Exported Goods enacted by the Chinese government on exported goods in January '08 have been translated into English and are available as a PDF file for download.
For anyone currently sourcing to China or considering such a move or expansion, MFG.com has a page dedicated to China Sourcing that you'll want to check out. And if you're a supplier, you'll want to view this information as well, as it can help you develop long-term strategies for your business and capitalize on these changes.
The main push of the page is to point out China's on-going shift from low-cost country to higher functioning technology provider. Think Japan in the 1970's or Korea in the 1980's. China's current, similar shift began with its membership in the World Trade Organization in 2001; but it wasn't until June of '07 that changes were made to offset the economic conditions that made China the preeminent choice for companies to use for low-cost manufacturing.
Along with the above-mentioned translation, here's some of what you can find through MFG.com's China resources page:
- "Surviving China's Rapidly Changing Sourcing Tides" - You can listen to and view this Webinar originally broadcast in July of '07. Hosted by SpendMatters founder and sourcing guru Jason Busch, it contains a wealth of info and commentary on the shifting prospects of sourcing to and competing with China. You may also download a printed script of the Webinar broadcast, as well as get the Q&A that followed in printed form.
- VAT Rebates Affected In June '07 - You can download translated lists of all products and materials affected by the VAT rebate cancellations or reductions from earlier in 2007.
- Executive Briefs - Read and download executive briefs for buy and supply side professionals that help to define the shifting Chinese economy and manufacturing base, and how best to handle these movements.
