We’ve Grown, Together

We’ve tripled the size of our company and grown our China Desk team fivefold. This incredible growth is thanks to our clients’ trust in us, and we couldn’t be more grateful.

Today, we hire and manage professionals across the full breadth of supply chain functions on behalf of our clients. These include quality engineers and sourcing managers to R&D specialists and logistics coordinators. Here’s a snapshot of the roles we currently support:

Investing in Our People

With our expanding team, we’ve placed a strong focus on nurturing talent from within. We’re delighted that Sophie Wan has stepped into the role of HR Manager, where she’s been doing a wonderful job keeping our China Desk members connected and supported.

Expanding Our Footprint

We’re now hiring people in more Chinese cities than ever before.

We established two new legal entities in China this year — one in Hangzhou and one in Foshan — which means we can now hire and onboard employees directly in those cities.

We also had the pleasure of creating a bespoke private office for one of our China Desk clients in Guangzhou. With four dedicated team members, this office has become a vital hub for our client’s China operations.

Check out our city-specific hiring and HR guides:

Lights, Camera, Action!

Last year, we took the plunge and launched our very own YouTube series.

The idea was simple: we spend every day navigating China’s labour laws, HR challenges and team management complexities. Why not share that expertise more widely?

If you haven’t subscribed yet, now’s the time!

Reaching New Horizons

Our partnership with the Brazil Chamber of Commerce has opened doors to exciting new markets. Latin American companies have been expanding their presence in China, and we’re grateful to the Chamber for connecting us with these businesses.

On the flip side, we’ve also become a turnkey partner for companies transitioning out. Three clients moved portions of their supply chains outside China this year, and Kinyu supported them in new markets while continuing to manage their teams on the ground. Wherever your business is headed, we’re here to help.

Looking Ahead

As we grow, we remain committed to the principles that guide everything we do: Resilience, Flexibility, and being a Great Employer.

Thank you to our clients, employees, and partners for making 2025 such a remarkable year. If you’re looking to build, grow or transition your team in China, we’d love to hear from you.

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The British Chamber of Commerce South China will host the programme across three key Chinese cities in December, bringing together U.K. officials, industry leaders and supply chain experts for practical insights and networking.

Shenzhen (Dec. 1) kicks off the series at The Langham Shenzhen, focusing on logistics and cross-border trade. Guangzhou (Dec. 3) at Hotel Indigo Guangzhou Haixinsha examines crisis planning and disruption lessons. The series concludes in Shanghai (Dec. 5) at InterContinental Shanghai Jing’An, exploring tariff resistance and industrial adaptation.

Each session combines a roundtable discussion from 2 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. with an evening networking reception from 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

“This is a great chance for companies based in China to share their industry expertise with key stakeholders from the U.K., who are flying out to learn how China’s incredible supply chain and manufacturing industries operate on the ground,” said Benjamin King, CEO of Kinyu and chair of the Chamber’s Supply Chain Committee. “It’s also a great chance for U.K. companies to make their voices heard, exchange fresh ideas and build real connections that matter for supply chain growth in both countries.”

Participants will walk away with actionable insights on optimizing their logistics networks, understanding new tariff rules and adapting operations to changing regulations. The three-session format lets businesses join one or all sessions based on their needs.

How to Join

Roundtable attendance is by invitation. Reception access is free for BritCham members and industry-related participants, with non-member tickets at 250 yuan per person ($35).

Registration is available via the links and QR codes below. For more information, contact us or communications@britchamsouthchina.org.

Registration Links:

• Shenzhen, Dec. 1: Logistics & Cross-Border Trade
• Guangzhou, Dec. 3: Crisis Planning & Disruption Lessons
• Shanghai, Dec. 5: Tariff Resistance & Industrial Adaptation

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Hangzhou, home to e-commerce giant Alibaba and AI leader DeepSeek, sits in the Yangtze River Delta and connects many global supply chains. The city produces everything from textiles and electronics to software and consumer goods.

But hiring in Hangzhou presents challenges for foreign firms. City-specific rules about leave, social insurance and other HR matters differ across China, requiring inside knowledge many foreign companies lack.

This is where Kinyu steps in. Kinyu legally employs workers on behalf of foreign companies. The foreign company selects the candidates and manages their work, while Kinyu handles all Chinese employment paperwork, tax filings, and legal compliance. This saves businesses hundreds of thousands of dollars in setup costs and months of bureaucratic procedures.

“We legally hire staff in Hangzhou on behalf of foreign businesses, handling all compliance requirements while they direct the daily work,” said Benjamin King, Kinyu’s CEO. “Companies save the cost and complexity of setting up their own Chinese entity.”

Unlike standard employment services, Kinyu specializes in supply chain operations. The company combines legal employment solutions with deep supply chain expertise, helping clients navigate local manufacturing networks and sourcing opportunities.

“We don’t just handle payroll and compliance. We give clients the supply chain intelligence they need to succeed in Hangzhou,” noted King. “Our team understands local factories, quality control, and logistics challenges specific to this region.”

Kinyu’s Hangzhou branch offers services including:

• Legal employment without entity setup
• Supply chain management
• Local oversight
• Talent recruitment
• China business advice
• Office space

This expansion adds to Kinyu’s existing locations in Guangzhou, Shanghai, Ningbo and Tianjin.

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This partnership offers Brazilian businesses easy access to Kinyu’s China Desk service, the only supply-chain focused Employer of Record (EOR) service in China.

The China Desk simplifies operations for foreign firms in China by handling staff management, office setup and regulatory compliance. This frees businesses to focus on their core operations, such as sourcing and supply chain management, instead of dealing with paperwork.

What sets The China Desk apart is that it’s supported by Kinyu’s team of supply chain experts. Unlike typical EOR services, China Desk clients also receive local oversight, logistics management and strategic advice. This means clients get more than just administrative support — they gain a partner with real supply chain expertise.

“Brazilian companies in China face a minefield of challenges,” said Benjamin King, Kinyu’s CEO. “Our service handles employment, logistics and supplier checks, so managers can focus on running their sourcing operations smoothly. No more red tape and logistical headaches!”

The partnership addresses four major challenges Brazilian companies in China often face:

• Linguistic and cultural barriers
• Supplier verification
• Efficient supply chain management
• Complex trade and customs regulations

“Kinyu’s innovative approach to supply chain management simplifies the complexities of handling international operations,” said Arthur Guimarães, general manager of the Brazil-China Chamber. “By joining forces, we aim to break down barriers and enable businesses to thrive in the Chinese market with greater efficiency and confidence. With this kind of expertise and support, our clients can focus solely on scaling their operations and achieving their goals, without worrying about paperwork or setting up an entity abroad.”

Are you a company sourcing in China with operations on the ground? For most businesses, setting up a local entity can be costly and complex. Choose a simpler path: partner with The China Desk. For more information and personalised guidance, please book a free consultation with our team!

About Kinyu

Kinyu SCM is a supply chain consultancy offering people-focused solutions in China. Its flagship service, The China Desk, provides supply chain HR solutions for foreign companies hiring professional talent in China.

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Ningbo, a major port city and economic hub located at the heart of the Yangtze River Delta, is a critical link in global supply chains. Known for its manufacturing sector, Ningbo is a key sourcing location for industries ranging from textiles and electronics to machinery and auto parts.

However, hiring in Ningbo, like in many Chinese cities, comes with unique challenges. Local HR laws and regulations, such as annual leave entitlements and social insurance contributions, vary significantly from city to city. Understanding and complying with these nuances requires local expertise, which can be overwhelming for foreign companies.

That’s why partnering with Kinyu in Ningbo offers a seamless solution. By leveraging Kinyu’s Employer of Record (EOR) services, businesses can focus on their core operations while letting Kinyu handle the intricacies of local HR compliance.

“Our new office in Ningbo is great news for foreign businesses seeking to tap into this dynamic city,” said Benjamin King, founder and CEO of Kinyu. “We allow companies to focus on growth without the administrative hurdles typically associated with hiring in China.”

The new Ningbo office provides Kinyu’s full suite of China Desk services, including:

• Compliant Hiring: Employer of Record (EOR) services for rapid and compliant hiring.
• Streamlined Logistics: Supply chain management and optimization.
• Local Support: On-the-ground oversight and management.
• Talent Access: Connection to a network of supply chain resources and talent.
• Strategic Guidance: Expert advisory for China operations.
• Office Solutions: Infrastructure for team members.

Kinyu’s expansion strengthens its coverage of China’s major economic areas. The move complements its existing offices in Guangzhou, Shanghai and Tianjin.

About Kinyu SCM

Kinyu SCM is a supply chain consultancy offering people-focused solutions in China. Its flagship service, The China Desk, provides supply chain HR solutions for foreign companies hiring professional talent in China.

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The awards, organized by the British Chambers of Commerce in China, celebrate excellence in innovation, enterprise, and endeavor in the British business community in China.

If you’ve found our supply chain insights helpful, we’d be grateful for your vote in the British Business Awards. Voting is open through the BBA’s WeChat account – simply scan the QR code below to cast your vote.

The winners will be announced at a gala dinner on Nov. 21 in Shanghai.

“We are honored to be recognized alongside such distinguished companies. This nomination reflects our team’s dedication to delivering people-focused supply chain solutions in China,” said Benjamin King, CEO of Kinyu SCM.

The 2024 awards feature nine categories recognizing achievements in areas including leadership, innovation, sustainability, and business partnerships between the U.K. and China.

About Kinyu SCM

Kinyu SCM is a supply chain consultancy specializing in people-focused solutions in China. Through its flagship service, The China Desk, the company provides supply chain HR solutions for foreign companies hiring professional talent in China.

For more information, download a case study or get in touch.

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The Shanghai region, China’s top financial hub and international centre, handles over 40% of the country’s foreign trade. Naturally, it’s the first choice for foreign companies needing a presence on the Chinese mainland.

However, opening and running a representative office here can be slow, expensive, and full of red tape. And now, with ongoing trade disputes, tariff uncertainties, and regulatory changes, it’s even more difficult. Companies want access to regional talent and suppliers, but with the flexibility to scale operations up or down quickly and without long-term commitments.

Kinyu’s Shanghai branch addresses this need by offering regional access to its acclaimed China Desk services. Through this office, businesses can now:

• Hire and manage directly through Kinyu across the Yangtze River Delta
• Use Kinyu’s team members for their projects
• Access the region’s supply chain and talent without complex administrative processes

“Our Shanghai branch is great news for foreign businesses with suppliers or operations in the region,” said Benjamin King, founder and CEO of Kinyu. “They get all the benefits of being in Shanghai and the Yangtze River Delta – quality suppliers, logistics and talent – without the time and money needed to set up their own entity.”

Full Suite of Services

The new Shanghai office provides Kinyu’s full suite of China Desk services, including:

• Employer of Record (EOR) services for quick and compliant hiring
• Supply chain management and optimization
• On-the-ground oversight and management
• Access to a network of supply chain resources and talent
• Strategic advisory for China operations
• Office Infrastructure for your team members to work from

“We combine operational expertise with HR services to offer companies a cheaper and easier way to manage their China-based activities,” King added. “If you want to keep control over your China operations, reduce time spent on bureaucracy and stay flexible, The China Desk is really the only game in town.”

The office will allow Kinyu’s clients to access talent and manage operations across the Yangtze River Delta region, including Hangzhou, Ningbo, Nanjing, Wuxi and Hefei. As a result, Kinyu now covers China’s three major economic areas, with other offices in Guangzhou (south China) and Tianjin (north China).

About Kinyu SCM

Kinyu SCM is a supply chain consultancy offering people-focused solutions in China. Its flagship service, The China Desk, provides supply chain HR solutions for foreign companies hiring professional talent in China.

For more information, download a case study or get in touch.

The post Kinyu Brings Flexible China Hiring Services to Shanghai appeared first on Kinyu.

Benjamin King, CEO of Kinyu SCM, was a guest speaker at the Guangzhou event, contributing to this initiative aimed at strengthening U.K.-China ties through youth engagement.

The Mandarin Excellence Program brought more than 1,000 British students to China this summer, immersing them in Chinese culture and offering insights into the country’s dynamics. Hosted by prominent universities including Beijing Foreign Studies University, Guangdong University of Foreign Studies, Jinan University and Sichuan Normal University, the programme provided a diverse learning experience.

King, along with other British professionals who have spent most of their careers in China, shared personal experiences and professional insights during the Guangzhou session. King discussed everyday life in China and the challenges of living in a different culture, both professionally and personally.

“In a post-COVID environment, we have become used to the rhetoric of isolation, and I was genuinely so happy to meet a group of inquisitive middle school students, keen to learn more about China,” King said. “We are excited to support the British Council and the Mandarin Excellence Programme.”

Students posed a range of questions to the panel, reflecting their curiosity about life in China. They asked about maintaining global connections, starting businesses, daily use of Mandarin and experiences with local attention. One student even asked, “Do you always get people wanting to take photos with you?”

The Mandarin Excellence Programme boosts students’ language skills and exposes them to China’s business world. Through interactions with the British business community in China, students received practical advice and learned about potential career paths in both countries.

Special thanks go to The British Council, IOE Faculty of Education and Society at UCL, Department for Education, Center for language Education and Cooperation, Jinan University College of Chinese Language and Culture.

Kinyu SCM remains committed to supporting initiatives that promote cultural exchange and international collaboration. The company looks forward to continuing its involvement in programmes that bridge gaps and create lasting connections between the U.K. and China.

About Kinyu SCM

Kinyu SCM is a supply chain consultancy offering people-focused solutions in China. Its flagship service, The China Desk, provides supply chain HR solutions for foreign companies hiring professional talent in China.

For more information, download a case study or get in touch.

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The following is a transcript of a speech by Benjamin King, CEO of Kinyu SCM, at the GD Today Salon at the 135th Canton Fair on April 15, 2024.

Ladies and gentlemen, distinguished guests, welcome to the Canton Fair. My name is Benjamin King. I am the founder and CEO of Kinyu SCM, a supply chain consultancy that creates people-focused solutions for your China operations.

It’s great to see so many people here on the first day of the Canton Fair. Since the pandemic, it has taken some time for people to return to China and the fair, but now it feels livelier than ever.
I will first give a bit of background about myself and my involvement with the Canton Fair, then I will share my thoughts on how the people in China make the magic happen.

I first came to China in 2012 when a Chinese friend from school invited me here. We traveled to Beijing, Shanghai, Changsha and Guangzhou.

I instantly fell in love with the country and wanted to return. While at university, I would save up money to return to China in the summers to visit friends and also start sourcing products for companies in the U.K.

Then in 2016, I had the opportunity to move to China and invest in a supply chain finance company in Changsha, Hunan. I was 24, and I jumped at the opportunity. I moved to Changsha to build a new life in China.

However, things did not go very smoothly for me. My Chinese was not very good, and I actually knew very little about developing business, and even less in China. My previous trips to China were fun, but now it was not a game. Over the years, I taught myself Chinese by reading insurance contracts, shipping documents and listening to my colleagues in the office.

I did manage to develop some business for this company, but I found more value in supporting the operations of foreign companies on the ground in China. When I moved to China, one of my key motivations was to be the bridge between Chinese and Western companies. I even wrote my master’s dissertation on the topic of guanxi when at university. But only when living and working in China did I truly come to understand how business in China is all about connecting with people and building relationships. The personal touch to business in China is what makes this country so special.
So I left the supply chain finance company and started working as a China country manager for a British company.

I would help the foreign company with supplier relationships, procurement, logistics, as well as sourcing. This brought me to the Canton Fair for the first time in 2018.

During COVID-19, I realized more and more companies needed supply chain support on the ground in China. Many companies wanted me to be their China country manager, even if I had no idea about their products!

Therefore, I decided to hire experts in different product categories, and then I would manage them on the ground for our clients.

This led me to set up Kinyu SCM and The China Desk, where we employ and manage supply chain personnel on the ground for foreign businesses. In 2020, my family and I moved to Guangzhou and decided to make this beautiful city our home and the base for our business. Our office is just a 10-minute drive from here (on a good day).

Our customers have purchased goods from China worth over $140 million USD over the last five years. The China Desk operation that Kinyu has set up plays an active role in managing this trade. The China Desk also creates jobs on the ground in Guangzhou, as well as in Tianjin, where we have a branch office.
We have the mission to develop new jobs on the ground in China, be a great employer and empower the supply chain operations of our clients.

So how does my story, and that of Kinyu, connect with the Canton Fair?

Well, I first visited the Canton Fair as a buyer, as someone on the ground. I helped my clients source products, and the Canton Fair was a great place to start.

I then also came to the Canton Fair as an exhibitor. We exhibited in the trade services section last year. This year, I am here as a visitor but mainly to see the Canton Fair and meet more people.

At the heart of China’s success story lies its people – the driving force behind the remarkable growth and prosperity that we witness today. The industrious spirit, untiring dedication and boundless creativity of the people have propelled China to the forefront of the global economy.

Many companies travel to China and to the Canton Fair to look for new products. But the most important aspect of the Canton Fair is the people.

Many of the products on show at the fair are developed by engineering talent in China. The components that make up these products are trucked across the country by people. These components are then assembled, for the most part, by people.

And today, the first day of the Canton Fair, buyers are here to meet the people who represent this supply chain.

In every corner of the country, from the bustling cities to the distant countryside, it is the people who breathe life into the supply chain — the unsung heroes who work tirelessly to ensure the seamless flow of goods and services across borders. Their ingenuity, skills and commitment to excellence form the bedrock of China’s manufacturing industry, making it the undisputed hub of global trade.

Just like the Canton Fair and supply chains across China, our company Kinyu is built on the foundations of people.

So, if you can take anything away from my speech today, it is that business in China is all about relationships and people. Find the right partner, and make sure you communicate well with them and build a strong personal relationship – and then the business will flow smoothly.

So today and for the next three weeks, I wish you all the best in meeting the right people and finding the right products for your business to succeed.

Thank you for your time, and I wish you a wonderful stay in Guangzhou.

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Global events are impacting supply chains and economic stability, affecting not only container space but also currency values. As a supply chain-focused Employer of Record, our clients spend millions of dollars on goods annually, making even slight fluctuations in currency rates significantly impactful.

This underscores the importance of having a reliable currency broker. Thwaytes Capital, a leading currency broker, operates above FCA-regulated entities in the City of London. Thwaytes serves global companies needing currency exchange and offers same-day transactions, hedging (currency protection), and third-party payments.

Through this partnership, members of The China Desk will receive preferential rates on foreign exchange, while clients of Thwaytes Capital will get a $500 USD discount voucher for Kinyu’s Launch Phase when utilizing The China Desk.

“Our partnership with Kinyu has proven the importance of why you should use a currency broker when dealing with China,” said Charlie Thwaytes, co-founder and director of Thwaytes Capital. “Companies have really gained value utilising the hedging tools when buying U.S. dollars or Chinese yuan. Our client have gained significant value when using Kinyu’s offering in China, it has solved so many teething problems within the supply chain on behalf of the U.K. and European businesses we deal with.”

“We have been working with Charlie and the team at Thwaytes Capital for many years and are excited to formalize this partnership. This allows members of The China Desk to access expert advice and support on currency movements,” said Benjamin King, CEO of Kinyu SCM.

If you would like to learn more about how to manage your currency risks when importing products from China, please get in touch with Charlie at the following email:

ct@thwaytescapitalgroup.co.uk
www.thwaytescapitalgroup.co.uk

If you are an importer looking to get boots on the ground in China to support your supply chain operation, get in touch with the team at Kinyu to learn more about The China Desk!

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