Xingfa USA Corp. on What it Means to Be a Reliable Supplier

Hongjun Li, Vice President of the Agrochemical Division of Xingfa USA Corp., discusses what it means to be a reliable supplier, provides advice on sourcing despite trade conflicts, and more.

AgriBusiness Global: What does it mean to be a reliable supplier in today’s market?

Hongjun Li: Being a reliable supplier today means providing customers with a worry-free, one-stop sourcing experience. This includes consistent product quality, stable supply, responsive service, and competitive pricing. Customers need partners who can help them manage uncertainty, not just deliver products.

AgriBusiness Global: What effects will regional conflicts have on sourcing in 2026?

Hongjun Li: Regional conflicts and geopolitical uncertainty may continue to put pressure on energy prices and transportation costs. As a result, sourcing decisions in 2026 will likely need to take logistics stability, freight costs, and inventory planning into greater consideration.

AgriBusiness Global: What effects will current developments in U.S.-China relations have on sourcing?

Hongjun Li: After the adjustments of the past one to two years, companies on both sides have developed a clearer understanding of market expectations, policy risks, and supply chain needs. While challenges and friction may still occur, we expect the overall business environment to remain relatively stable. Companies will continue to focus on practical cooperation, cost control, and supply reliability.

AgriBusiness Global: What advice do you have for companies sourcing products? Should they use “just in time” or give more lead time?

Hongjun Li: Companies should avoid relying too heavily on a pure “just-in-time” model in the current market. It is important to build more flexibility into procurement plans, allow reasonable lead time, and prepare for unexpected disruptions. A balanced approach between inventory efficiency and supply security is now more important than ever.

AgriBusiness Global: Is there any technology that can help with supply chain visibility?

Hongjun Li: Supply chain visibility is becoming increasingly important, especially when markets are uncertain. While we are not technology providers, we believe tools that improve order tracking, inventory visibility, logistics updates, and communication between suppliers and customers can help companies make faster and better sourcing decisions.

AgriBusiness Global: What sourcing trends do you expect to see in the next three to five years?

Hongjun Li: Over the next three to five years, supply chains will likely face continued pressure from regional conflicts, logistics disruptions, energy cost volatility, and other unexpected events. Companies will place more emphasis on supplier reliability, diversified planning, inventory flexibility, and the ability to respond quickly to market changes.

AgriBusiness Global: Is there anything else you’d like to add?

Hongjun Li: In today’s market, sourcing is no longer only about price. Companies need dependable partners who can provide stable quality, reliable supply, competitive value, and practical support when market conditions change.