The useful question is not whether China is “large.” It is whether defined Chinese accounts have a credible reason to evaluate your offer, and whether you can serve the resulting opportunity economically.
1. Separate learning cost from scaling cost
Early spending should answer whether a credible sales path exists. Entity setup, hiring, inventory, exhibitions and localization are scale decisions with different risk.
2. Budget the first evidence stage
SellToCN’s 30-Day China Market Pilot is US$1,000 and covers a defined validation sprint. It is not a promise of orders or a substitute for product-specific legal, regulatory or tax work.
3. Understand ongoing commercial cost
Where evidence supports continuation, Sales Development is US$2,000/month plus a 5% success fee; China Representative is US$3,000/month plus 3%. Scope is agreed in contract.
4. Model the hidden drivers
Samples, freight, translation, certification, local testing, travel, channel margin, warranty, service and payment terms can outweigh prospecting fees. Estimate them for the actual product.
5. Use decision gates
Set evidence and budget thresholds before each stage. Stop or reposition when the market response does not justify the next commitment.
Frequently asked questions
What does the US$1,000 pilot include?
Target-account selection, outreach, feedback and pipeline reporting within the agreed 30-day scope.
When is a success fee payable?
Only for new Chinese customers developed through our work, after the client receives the relevant sales proceeds, under the signed agreement.
Are regulatory costs included?
No. Product-specific certification, legal, tax, testing, freight and similar third-party costs require separate assessment.