I. Solid Wood Cutting BoardExport agentWhat is the market outlook?

According to the 2024 export data for wooden products from Chinese customs, the category of wooden kitchenware has maintained an average annual growth rate of 6.8%. As a high-value-added product, solid wood cutting boards exhibit three major trends in the European and American markets:

• Environmental certification requirements upgraded:Starting from 2025, the European Union will implement a new version of the Forest Act (EUDR), requiring traceability back to the original logging site.
• Shift in material preference:The demand for hardwoods such as black walnut and teak has increased, while the market share of bamboo products has declined by 3.2%.
• The Rise of Smart Packaging:Cutting boards with antibacterial coatings command a premium of up to 35% over traditional products.

II. How to Choose Between Agency Model and Self-operated Export?

It is recommended to choose the cooperation model based on the scale of the enterprise:

• Start-up enterprises (annual export volume < $500,000):
  • The agent's advance payment ratio can reach up to 80%.
  • Shared overseas warehouses can reduce logistics costs by 30%.
• Medium-sized enterprises ($0.5-2 million):
  • It is recommended to adopt a hybrid model: self-operation in core markets and agency in emerging markets.
  • Leverage agent customs clearance resources to break through trade barriers

III. What are the special requirements for exporting solid wood cutting boards?

Special attention must be paid to three key compliance elements:

• Material Certification:A CITES certificate is required (for endangered timber).
• Processing Certificate:ISPM15 Standard Fumigation Treatment Report
• Food Safety:U.S. FDA, EU EC1935 Food Contact Material Certification

In 2025, the new Timber Legality Assurance System (TLAS) will be implemented in Australia. It is recommended to collaborate with suppliers holding FSC certification.

IV. How to Evaluate the Comprehensive Capabilities of Agents?

It is recommended to evaluate from five dimensions:

• Qualification review:Check the original documents of import and export rights, AEO certification, and other qualifications.
• Logistics network:Is there a dedicated customs clearance team at major ports in the US/EU?
• Risk control system:Is a trade compliance review system in place?
• Case verification:Request to provide customs clearance records for similar exported products.
• Service response:Emergency response capability in the event of sudden trade disputes

V. How to Optimize the Logistics Plan for 2025?

Current optimal solution combination:

• Main shipping channel:Adopt the LCL consolidation + pallet reinforcement solution to reduce transportation losses by 15%.
• Railway Auxiliary:The transportation time of China-Europe freight trains remains stable at 18-22 days.
• Special treatment:It is recommended to use container desiccants in humidity-sensitive areas.

6. How to prevent payment risks?

Here are three recommended secure payment combinations:

• 30% advance payment + 70% upon receipt of bill of lading copy:Applicable to orders from existing customers
• Letter of Credit + Export Credit Insurance:Preferred Solution for Emerging Markets
• Third-party platform escrow:Alibaba's credit insurance orders grew by 40%.

7. How to Establish a Sustainable Agency Partnership?

It is recommended to establish three mechanisms:

• Information Sharing System:Real-time synchronization of order status and customs policies
• Joint Promotion Fund:Market development expenses shall be accrued at 1-3% of sales revenue.
• Regular review system:Evaluate service KPI metrics quarterly.