Identifying legitimate buyers and sellers.
    
    by Tekle Sebhatu
    
    Question:
    
    I don't know where to begin. I've been a free member of Alibaba for about six months, and have been contacted by numerous individuals to buy my items and to sell to me. However, being new to selling on this international level, I'm reluctant because I feel uncomfortable with the contacts. On both sides, I've asked for references and have not received anything but responses like "I'm an honest person and would not cheat you." I know there is a major problem with fraud in China as I've purchased some "fake" items there. Also, people want you to use Western Union. I sell on Ebay and they certainly discourage it. My questions are:
    
    How do I know a legitimate buyer or seller and not a fraud? And,
    How do I accept payment for goods I sell and pay for items and know I'll get them?
    Answer:
    
    There is no formula that I know that can help conclusively prove the legitimacy of a buyer or seller. You have to thoroughly research the buyer or seller and try to build a long lasting business relationship. Once you know the seller or the buyer, depending how much risk you want to take, you have several payment options, including open account, advance payment, consignment, documentary collection or letter of credit. Building trust and a solid relationship are the first step.