In order to understand the effectiveness and challenges faced by the 'small-order, quick-response' export model of foreign trade manufacturing enterprises in Qingdao, the Qingdao Survey Team of the National Bureau of Statistics recently conducted a special survey on eight such enterprises. The survey results show that the 'small-order, quick-response' export model is conducive to enterprises' keen grasp of market demand, alleviating inventory pressure, and driving order growth. In the future, efforts should be made from multiple perspectives to promote the healthy development of this export model.

The export model of 'small orders, quick response' in foreign trade has significant advantages

According to research, the core of the 'small order, fast response' model lies in its ability to quickly respond to market changes and consumer demands. With the increasing demand for customization and rapid response in the international market, the 'small order, fast response' model is being accepted and adopted by more and more enterprises. A clothing manufacturing enterprise in Qingdao reported that in recent years, the number of small orders for clothing products received by the enterprise has increased year by year, and orders with a lead time of three months now account for 85% of the total orders, compared to the previous majority of orders with a lead time of half a year or even a year.

According to research, under the 'small order, fast response' model, enterprises can adjust their production plans in a timely manner based on market feedback, avoiding inventory backlog caused by overproduction and reducing the inventory risk and financial pressure on enterprises. A textile enterprise in Qingdao stated that the 'small order, fast response' model involves production following orders, especially small-volume orders, and adopts a 'one-order, one-settlement' approach. This effectively avoids inventory pressure and reduces arrears and operational risks, especially for small-scale enterprises.

According to research, the 'small order, fast response' model features more targeted product design and production, and a quicker response to consumer market demands, naturally attracting more customers. A certain e-commerce limited liability company in Qingdao stated that the 'small order, fast response' model allows for the product categories to be changed at any time according to customer requirements, and orders to be completed in a timely manner. In 2024, the company's export orders showed a steady increase, with revenue increasing by about 8.3% year-on-year. A certain jewelry manufacturing enterprise in Qingdao reported that since 2022, when the company began experimenting with the 'small order, fast response' model in foreign trade, its annual export value has increased by 99.7% and 12.8% respectively in the past two years, showing a year-on-year growth trend.

Enterprises: Looking forward to the formulation of special support policies

Digital transformation can enhance a company's market responsiveness, aiding it in better predicting market trends and optimizing production and inventory management. Enterprises are advised to fully leverage existing special funds and intensify support for manufacturing enterprises adopting the 'small order, quick response' model in the realm of digital transformation. Simultaneously, there is a need to refine supporting services, establish a comprehensive public service system for digital transformation, and consistently elevate the standards of services such as policy consultation, technical guidance, talent training, and engineering supervision.

In addition, enterprises anticipate the formulation of special support policies. Firstly, with the aim of enhancing the efficiency of industrial chain collaboration and the level of supply chain integration and coordination, it is encouraged for industry associations or chambers of commerce to play a leading role in guiding the establishment of industry supply chain collaboration platforms, thereby improving supply chain efficiency. Secondly, it is suggested to provide tax relief or preferential policies for manufacturing enterprises operating under the 'small order, quick response' model in areas such as export trade and export tax rebates, in order to reduce their operational costs.

Enterprises also suggest providing more opportunities for participation in exhibitions. Firstly, the government should set up platforms, actively guide and encourage foreign trade manufacturing enterprises to participate in various exhibitions at home and abroad, formulate policies for awarding and subsidizing enterprise participation, and provide special financial support. Secondly, the government should increase support for foreign trade manufacturing enterprises to organize exhibitions overseas, provide services in information consultation, matchmaking, and negotiation, and assist enterprises in expanding their product markets and enhancing their market competitiveness.

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