How to screen for reliable overseas agency partners?

In the 2025 global trade environment, it is recommended to proceed through3D Evaluation ModelCarry out screening:

• Qualification review:
  • A local chamber of commerce registration certificate is required.
  • Please check the AEO certification status with customs.
  • Verify the bank credit line documents
• Market Capability Validation:
  • Please provide the distribution network layout map for the past two years.
  • Verify its market share in the target channel
  • On-site inspection of warehousing and logistics facilities
• Cooperation Willingness Assessment:
  • A three-year market development plan is required
  • Confirm its technical staff training program
  • Negotiate the proportion of marketing promotion costs to be shared

What are the latest agency development channels for 2025?

In addition to traditional channels, we recommend paying attention to the following emerging approaches:

• Smart Matching Platform:such as the newly added AI agent matching system on Alibaba Partner Hub
• Customs Data Traceability:Analyze importers of similar products via Global Trade Atlas
• Industry Certification Body:For example, the partner enterprise database of the German TüV certification body
• Cross-border e-commerceSynergy:Recommend local service providers through Amazon Brand Registry

What key clauses must an exclusive agency agreement include?

Based on the 128 agency-agreement dispute cases we have handled, special attention is advised:

• Market Performance Clause:Specify the minimum purchase quantity for the first year and the growth rate requirement
• Intellectual property protection:The scope of trademark use and the detailed rules for infringement compensation must be stipulated.
• After-sales Service Terms:Clearly define the technical support response time and spare parts inventory standards
• Exit Mechanism:It should include a 6-month transition period and specifications for the handover of customer data.

How to Avoid Common Risks in Agency Cooperation?

Based on the representative cases released by the International Trade Court in 2024, it is recommended to establishThree-level risk control system:

• Early-stage prevention:
  • Request the agent to procure professional liability insurance
  • Establish a joint regulatory account to manage the payment for goods
• Process monitoring:
  • Implement real-time data sharing within the ERP system
  • Conduct third-party financial audits every quarter
• Emergency handling:
  • The agreed place of arbitration is the Singapore International Arbitration Centre
  • Prepare a backup list of alternative proxies

How can small and medium-sized enterprises secure high-quality agents?

Based on our experience helping 37 SMEs successfully secure contracts, we recommendDifferentiated negotiation strategy:

• Grant exclusive rights for product customization and development
• Adopt a tiered commission structure (e.g., 15% in the first year, reduced to 12% after targets are met)
• Commit to jointly participate in the three major local industry trade shows
• Shared usage rights to the digital marketing system?