外贸业务谈判进程:Inquiries 询价(1)

P=Peter (customer), Li=a businessman (of a Chinese trade company)

P: I'm glad to have the chance to visit your company. I hope to conclude some substantial business with you.
L: It's a great pleasure, Mr. Peter, to have the opportunity of meeting you. I believe you have seen the exhibits in the showroom. May I know what particular items you're interested in?

P: I'm interested in your hardware. I have seen the exhibits and studied your catalogs. I think some of the items will find a ready market in Canada. Here is a list of my requirements, for which I'd like to have your lowest quotations, CIF Vancouver.
L: Thank you for your inquiry. Would you tell us the quantity you require so as to enable us to work out the offers?

P: I'll do that. Meanwhile, would you give me an indication of price?
L: Here are our FOB. price lists. All the prices in the lists are subject to our confirmation.

P: What about the commission? From European suppliers I usually get a 3 to 5 percent commission for my imports. It's the general practice.
L: As a rule we do not allow any commission. But if the order is large enough, we'll consider it.

P: You see, I do business on commission basis. A commission on your prices would make it easier for me to promote sales. Even a 2 or 3 percent would help.
L: We'll discuss this when you place your order with us.