Tips for Managing the Impact in 2025
Chinese New Year is already in full swing, and with it, the festivities are having a direct impact on global supply chains. During this time, many factories in China close or significantly reduce their production capacity, which can lead to unexpected delays in your shipments. If you haven’t taken steps to mitigate the effects of this season yet, don’t worry—there’s still time to act!
Here are some practical tips to handle the challenges that are already taking place:
Check Your Inventory: It’s important to review the current state of your inventory and anticipate possible production disruptions. If you haven’t done so yet, now is the time to verify whether you have enough stock to cover the period when factories will be inactive or operating at lower capacity.
Maintain Active Communication with Your Suppliers: Stay in constant contact with your suppliers in China to confirm their operating hours during Chinese New Year. This will help you adjust expectations and make informed decisions about your next steps.
Account for Shipping Delays: If you’ve already placed your orders, prepare for delays. While factories will soon start reopening, production may not resume immediately, and bottlenecks may occur. Adjust your delivery timelines accordingly.
Consider Alternative Suppliers: If you still have time, you might explore the option of diversifying your suppliers or seeking alternatives in other countries. This can help reduce your dependence on China during the holiday season and minimize the impact on your supply chain.
Plan for Post-Holiday Operations: While factories will reopen after Chinese New Year, keep in mind that production may be slower initially due to the backlog of orders. It’s advisable to adjust your expectations for timeframes and be prepared for a gradual resumption of activities.
Although Chinese New Year is already underway, it’s not too late to take actions that can help protect your operations. With strategic planning and proactive communication with your suppliers, you can navigate these challenges and keep your business moving forward with minimal disruptions.