Who We Are

Tate’s Advisory Group is built on a unique advantage: an American product expert with years of hands-on experience in China working side by side with local Chinese communication and sourcing specialists.

By combining a clear understanding of Western business expectations with deep knowledge of Chinese business practices, we make sourcing and quality control efficient, transparent, and aligned with Western standards.

This year alone, we have successfully sourced 20+ product categories for Western clients—ranging from customized consumer goods to specialized industrial components. Beyond sourcing, we conduct regular factory and production inspections, meeting suppliers face-to-face every month to ensure compliance, quality, and long-term reliability.

Meet Our Directors

Tate Smith

DIRECTOR & PRODUCT EXPERT
With four years of hands-on experience in China’s manufacturing industry, Tate leads Tate’s Advisory Group with a focus on building strong business partnerships and keeping product quality at its best. His journey began in Germany as a product sourcing manager, where he first learned the ins and outs of international trade before relocating to China to coordinate supply chains and develop new products for European companies.
At Tate’s Advisory Group, Tate spends much of his time on the ground — visiting factories, checking production lines, and talking face-to-face with suppliers. He believes the best results come from clear communication, mutual respect, and attention to detail. His goal is simple: help international clients get reliable products from China without the usual stress or uncertainty.
Erika Zhong

SOURCING & COMMUNICATION
Erika started her career helping foreign companies navigate China’s business landscape while still in college. After earning her Master’s degree in Business Translation from China’s top foreign language institute, she quickly found her passion in bridging communication between international clients and Chinese suppliers.
Today at Tate’s Advisory Group, Erika uses her experience and intuition to make every cross-border project run smoothly — helping clients feel understood, well-informed, and confident doing business in China.

Get in Touch With Us

Why Work With Us

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Local Presence

On-the-ground support in China provides real-time updates and faster problem resolution.

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Bilingual Advantage

A team combining American product expertise with local Chinese specialists ensures precise inspections, clear reporting, and seamless communication.

Western

Business Mindset

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A deep understanding of Western expectations for quality, compliance, and transparency.

Stronger Supplier Relationships

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Having a foreign representative based in China on your behalf – whether for on-site factory visits, local sourcing, or supplier communication – signals to Chinese businesses that the partnership is serious and valuable. This added level of commitment motivates suppliers to prioritize your orders, maintain higher service standards, and view your business as a long-term relationship rather than a one-time transaction.