How do I check if a Chinese EV importer is legitimate?
The most common failure mode when sourcing Chinese EVs is falling for a fake exporter. Here's how buyers de-risk it in 2026.
Documentary checks
Business licence (营业执照) with 5+ years of operation and matching legal representative. Cross-check on the National Enterprise Credit Information Publicity System (公示系统) — free public lookup.
MOFCOM Foreign Trade Operator Registration — mandatory for any legal exporter.
Physical / operational checks
Video-audit of warehouse showing your specific inventory. Timestamp cross-check.
Ask for OEM authorisation letter — a real trading co. will have this on file. A fake one will delay or produce a photoshopped copy (verify with the OEM directly).
Payment protection
Standard terms: 30% deposit against Proforma Invoice, 70% against Bill of Lading copy (i.e. after container is on the ship).
For first orders: use Alibaba Trade Assurance or SGS-verified escrow. Never send 100% wire against a Proforma Invoice.
- 01Cross-check the business licence on the .gov register.
- 02OEM authorisation letter is the crucial document.
- 03Never wire 100% up-front to a first-time counterparty.
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