On February 16, 2018, the Chinese New Year begins. This holiday marks the start of the Spring Festival and, according to the Chinese zodiac, the start of the Year of the Dog.
The Chinese zodiac is made up of 12 animals in the following order: rat, ox, tiger, rabbit, dragon, snake, horse, goat, monkey, rooster, dog and pig. The 2018 Chinese New Year is the turn of the most honest, reliable, diligent, fair and loyal animal of the cycle, characteristics that could shape the character of those born during this year.
The Chinese New Year, or Lunar New Year, is known in the country as the Spring Festival and is, without a doubt, the most important celebration in China. The starting date varies every year (always between January 21 and February 20). It is traditionally celebrated for 16 days and ends with the Lantern Festival (March 2, 2018). This celebration, which changes date every year according to the lunar cycle, allows Chinese citizens to take part in dozens of parades and to fulfill many of their traditions.
Chinese New Year has a major impact on global foreign trade, especially on companies that import products manufactured in the Asian country. As it is the most popular holiday in China, commercial activity comes to a near standstill. Government offices, factories and workers stop their activities, and ports and customs offices operate with a minimum staff. It is common that, two to three weeks before the New Year, production companies give their employees holidays so they can spend these days with their families, which means a gradual reduction in the usual production pace.
If this slowdown is affecting your import process from China, do not hesitate to contact us. At MingTa Group we are at your disposal to handle any inconvenience that may arise.