Working with China in Limassol

Working with China from Limassol

Cyprus is rarely used for direct import — more often as a holding and trading jurisdiction: a Cypriot company signs contracts and handles settlements, while goods from China go directly to the buyer or through the port of Limassol. You need a supplier, quality control, and a deal structure.

What matters specifically for Russian speakers from the CIS

• a Cypriot company (12.5%) — a convenient trading intermediary for contracts;
• payments to China — via a Cyprus bank (strict compliance) or USDT and international transfers;
• goods are physically shipped not to Cyprus but directly to the CIS;
• factor commission and exchange rate costs (1–3%) into your cost price.

Supplier search and vetting

• platforms: Alibaba, 1688 (cheaper), Global Sources, Canton Fair;
• verify the business licence, request samples, and arrange a video audit;
• payment 30/70; Trade Assurance and pre-shipment inspection.

Logistics

• **Port of Limassol — the island’s largest, if you need goods delivered there;
• shipments usually go directly from China to CIS countries, with the Cyprus company appearing only in the contract;
• air freight via Larnaca — for urgent shipments.

Customs clearance and taxes

• importing into the EU — 19% VAT plus duty; special regimes apply for transit and re-export.

How not to lose money

• calculate the full landed cost including logistics and customs clearance;
• vet the factory before making payment;
• the safer route is a turnkey partner in China, with a Cyprus company handling payments and contracts.

Need Chinese suppliers and a trading structure? Describe your task — we’ll help you find, verify, and set it up.