1.

Clearly define the roles and responsibility between corporate and facilities. Many companies lack a clear understanding of their true global supply chain capabilities, critical for proper planning. Similarly, many companies aren’t aware of what tools, processes and people are needed to effectively implement a CTM program. The first step in creating a successful program is establishing what functions are needed, and then assigning roles to corporate and facilities as appropriate.

2.

Establish corporate compliance policies and objectives. By applying the 80/20 rule and clearly defining corporate compliance policies and objectives, each facility can quickly devise its own CTM practice to meet its specific requirements based a consistent corporate framework.

3.

Invest in a China Trade Management (CTM) solution. Companies can identify patterns and promulgate best practices at the operations level.  But without an effective CTM system solution with continual regulatory updates, companies face unmitigated compliance risks, clearance delays, unnecessary supply chain impacts, additional tax payments, inefficient operations, and an inability to respond to government agency audits. A comprehensive CTM solution gives people the tools they need to do the job right the first time, every time.

4.

Create protocols to manage service providers.
By extending purchasing and compliance processes and developing a set of rules and regulations to determine how data is transmitted to inbound trading companies, companies can shorten cycle times, improve service levels, lower supply chain execution costs, and better support compliance initiatives. These protocols should include service provider qualification; expense management; audit measurements; and regular performance reviews.