Chinese New Year 2025 falls on January 26. Learn how to prepare your business for extended factory and supply chain disruptions during the holiday season.
What You Need to Know About Chinese New Year 2025
Chinese New Year is one of the most important holidays in China. In 2025, it begins on January 26 and celebrations will continue until February 9. For businesses, this means an extended period when most factories, warehouses, and transport companies cease operations.
It’s also worth noting that many companies begin slowing down weeks before the holiday and may take time to resume full operations afterward.
How to Prepare Your Business for the Shutdown
Holiday shutdowns can disrupt supply chains, but with careful planning, you can minimize risks and keep your operations running smoothly.
1. Place Orders Early
Avoid delays by placing your orders as early as possible, preferably by mid-January. This gives factories enough time to fulfill your orders before the holidays.
Tip: Plan your purchases to cover 1–2 months after the holiday since factories may resume operations gradually.
2. Confirm Supplier Schedules
Each factory has its own holiday schedule. Confirm the exact dates when your suppliers will stop and resume operations.
Ask your supplier:
- When will they stop production?
- When will they resume work?
- Will emergency orders be accommodated?
3. Build Inventory
Calculate your needs for the holiday period and stock up in advance to avoid running out of products.
Example: If you deal with high-demand items, consider ordering extra batches.
4. Conduct Quality Checks Before the Holida
Factories may rush to complete orders before the holiday, which can lead to quality issues. Arrange inspections to ensure compliance with your standards.
What to check:
- Quality of materials and finished products.
- Compliance with certification standards (CE, RoHS, Certificate of Origin).
- Production timelines.
5. Prepare Logistics
Logistics during Chinese New Year can be challenging due to high demand and limited capacity. Book transportation well in advance.
Tip: Post-holiday operations may restart gradually, leading to delays in shipping.
6. Communicate with Suppliers
Regular communication with your suppliers can help you avoid misunderstandings. Ask about their plans before and after the holiday period.
What Certificates to Request from Suppliers?
To ensure product compliance with international standards, request the following documents:
- CE Certificate: Ensures compliance with European safety standards.
- RoHS Certificate: Guarantees that the product is free from hazardous substances.
- Certificate of Origin: Confirms the country of production.
- Other specific certifications: Such as ISO or UL (depending on your industry).
Conclusion
Chinese New Year can be a challenge for businesses, but with proper planning, you can avoid disruptions and ensure smooth operations. Place orders early, check product quality, and maintain communication with suppliers. Work with trusted partners to keep your business growing even during holiday breaks!
