How to Import Products from China to Philippines?
If you’re planning to import products from China to the Philippines or seeking a reliable Taobao or 1688 agent to handle sourcing and shipping, this guide is for you.
Follow our step-by-step process to import goods seamlessly and cost-effectively.
Table of Contents
🚢 Import Process: Step-by-Step Guide
1. 📝 Register as an Importer
To import legally, register with the relevant Philippine government agencies:
- Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR): Obtain an Import Clearance Certificate (valid for 3 years) after completing the required process.
- Bureau of Customs (BOC): Create an account in the Client Profile Registration System. Renew annually for approximately PHP 1,000 (about USD 20), with processing taking up to 15 working days.
Tip for Beginners: Ensure all your business documents (e.g., DTI registration) are ready to avoid delays.
2. 🔍 Find a Reliable Supplier
Start by identifying a supplier offering the desired product quality and price. Options include:
- Online Platforms: Browse 1688 or Alibaba for cost-effective deals.
- Trade Shows: Attend events like the Canton Fair to meet suppliers in person.
- Agent Services: Even if you don’t speak Chinese, Supplyia’s 1688 agents can source products and arrange shipping for you.
Tip: Verify supplier credibility by checking reviews, licenses, or using platforms like Alibaba’s Trade Assurance.
3. 🤝 Negotiate Terms
Once you’ve chosen a supplier, negotiate key details:
- Product quality and price
- Payment terms (e.g., 30% deposit)
- Delivery timeline
- Incoterms (e.g., FOB, CIF, DDP)
Tip for Beginners: Choose DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) if you want the supplier to handle customs clearance.
4. 🛒 Place Your Order
After agreeing on terms, place the order by paying a deposit (typically 30%) via bank transfer, PayPal, or other agreed methods. Ensure all terms are documented in a contract.
Learn safe payment methods here.
5. 🚚 Arrange Shipping
As production nears completion, hire a freight forwarder. Compare quotes to find the best rates and terms.
Tip: Supplyia offers door-to-door DDP shipping, handling everything from pickup to delivery.
6. 💳 Final Payment and Delivery
Pay the remaining balance to the supplier. Your freight forwarder will coordinate with the supplier to pick up goods and manage Chinese customs formalities. The shipment is then sent to the Philippines.
🛬 Shipping Options from China to the Philippines
You can ship goods via:
- Sea Freight: Cost-effective for large shipments.
- Air Freight: Faster but more expensive, ideal for small, high-value items.
With China as a global manufacturing hub and the Philippines’ growing middle class, trade between the two countries is thriving.
💸 Taxes and Duties
Thanks to the ASEAN-China Free Trade Agreement (FTA), most goods from China face 0% import duties. However, a 12% VAT may apply based on the goods’ value and local charges.
Note: Certain products (e.g., electronics, food, chemicals) may require additional permits from the Philippine Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
📄 Required Documentation
Prepare the following for customs clearance in the Philippines:
- Ocean Bill of Lading or Air Waybill
- Commercial Invoice
- Packing List
- Import Permit
- Certificate of Origin
- Customs Import Declaration
- Additional permits (e.g., FDA certificates for food or drugs)
💰 Shipping Costs
Shipping costs vary by method and shipment size. Here’s a comparison (as of April 2025):
| Shipping Method | Cost | Best For | Transit Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sea Freight | $40–$250 per CBM | Bulk shipments | 7–13 days |
| Air Freight | $2–$5 per kg | Small, high-value items | 3–5 days |
| Express (DHL, FedEx) | $10–$20 per kg | Urgent, small parcels | 2–4 days |
| DDP Service | Varies (contact for quote) | Hassle-free, no customs experience | 2–3 weeks |
Note: Costs may vary due to fuel surcharges, peak seasons, or port fees. Get a free quote for accurate pricing.
⏰ Shipping Time
Sea freight transit times from major Chinese ports to Philippine destinations:
| Origin | Manila | Cebu | Batangas | Davao |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hong Kong/Shenzhen | 9 days | 10 days | 9 days | 11 days |
| Shanghai | 10 days | 11 days | 10 days | 12 days |
| Ningbo | 10 days | 11 days | 10 days | 12 days |
| Xiamen | 9 days | 10 days | 9 days | 11 days |
| Qingdao | 11 days | 12 days | 11 days | 13 days |
| Dalian | 7 days | 8 days | 7 days | 9 days |
| Tianjin | 12 days | 13 days | 12 days | 14 days |
🌟 Tax-Free DDP Shipping
Our DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) service simplifies importing from China to the Philippines. No import license or customs hassle is required—just follow our instructions and receive your package in as little as 3 weeks (sea) or 3–5 days (air).
Why Choose Supplyia’s DDP?
- Tax-free and duty-free delivery options
- Door-to-door service from Yiwu, Shenzhen, or other hubs
- Ideal for Taobao or 1688 purchases
🛠️ Tips for First-Time Importers
- Research the Market: Use Shopee or Lazada to identify trending products like affordable smartphones or fast fashion.
- Choose the Right Incoterm: FOB is cost-effective, but DDP saves time for beginners.
- Avoid Scams: Verify suppliers via platforms like Alibaba or request samples before bulk orders.
- Plan for Costs: Include VAT, local port fees, and potential storage costs in your budget.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I avoid unreliable suppliers?
A: Check supplier ratings, request business licenses, or use Supplyia’s vetted 1688 agents.
Q: What if my goods are delayed at customs?
A: Ensure all documents are complete. Our DDP service handles customs for you.
Q: Are there hidden costs?
A: Local charges (e.g., port fees) may apply. Contact us for a detailed cost breakdown.
🏆 Why Choose Supplyia?
With over 10 years of experience, Supplyia has helped 500+ Philippine importers source and ship goods from China. Our clients say:
“Supplyia made importing from Taobao a breeze. Their DDP service saved us time and money!” — Juan, Cebu Retailer
📖 Case Study: Maria’s Success with Supplyia
Maria, a Manila-based retailer, wanted to import affordable electronics from 1688. With Supplyia’s DDP service, she sourced quality products, avoided customs hassles, and received her shipment in just 10 days, saving 25% on logistics costs.
Ready to import from China? Let Supplyia handle the heavy lifting.
