Chinese New Year, also known as Spring Festival, is one of the most important holidays in China. For businesses that rely on Chinese suppliers, this period can bring major challenges. In 2025, the ‘Year of the Snake’ falls on January 29, which means that many factories and transportation services in China will be shut down for weeks. In this blog, we will discuss the most important points to consider if you are planning to import goods from China during this period.
Key points of interest:
- Delays in production and delivery during Chinese New Year
- Production downtime and how It can impact your supply chain
- Shipping times and logistical challenges during the holidays
- Tips for importing around Chinese New Year
- Plan ahead to minimise disruptions
Delays in production and delivery
During the Chinese New Year, most factories in China close their doors, often for a period of two to four weeks. This can cause significant delays in both production and delivery of goods. Importers should be aware of these disruptions and place orders well in advance to avoid running out of stock. It is also important to keep in mind that many workers do not return immediately after the holiday, which can lead to a slower restart of production.
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Read moreProduction downtime: What does this mean for your business?
The production standstill during Chinese New Year can have a major impact on businesses that rely on Chinese suppliers. If you have not built up inventory before this period, you run the risk of disappointing customers due to delayed deliveries. In addition, prices can increase due to limited availability of products, including for sea freight. By planning ahead and informing your suppliers early about your expected demand, you can significantly reduce these risks.
Shipping times and logistical challenges
In addition to production downtime, shipping times can also increase significantly during Chinese New Year. Ports and logistics companies in China often operate at a minimum or even close completely during the holiday. This can mean that shipments are delayed, sometimes by weeks. It is therefore essential to factor this period into your logistics planning and consider alternative shipping methods or routes to ensure timely delivery.
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Read moreTips for importing around Chinese New Year 2025
To avoid any issues, it’s crucial to be well-prepared for Chinese New Year. Start building your inventory in the months leading up to the holiday and make sure your orders are placed well in advance. Communicate clearly with your suppliers about their cut-off dates and plan your production and shipping around them. Also consider working with multiple suppliers to reduce your reliance on a single source.
Planning Ahead: The Key to Success
The best way to minimize the impact of Chinese New Year on your business is to plan ahead. By placing orders and building inventory early, you can mitigate any disruptions to your supply chain. Additionally, it’s helpful to stay in regular contact with your Chinese suppliers so that you’re always aware of their schedules and any changes to their schedules.
Conclusion
By following these steps, you can ensure that your business is well-prepared for Chinese New Year 2025 and its challenges, so that you can continue to meet your customers’ expectations, even during this busy period.
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