Mini Importation (A–Z): How to Import from China to Ghana in 2025 with as Little as 100 Cedis

  Mini importation has become one of the easiest and most profitable side hustles in Ghana today. The beauty of it is that you don’t need m...

 

Mini importation has become one of the easiest and most profitable side hustles in Ghana today. The beauty of it is that you don’t need millions to start—many young entrepreneurs begin with as little as 100 to 200 cedis and gradually scale up.

Unfortunately, most tutorials online make it look too complex or too expensive. But the truth is: mini importation is simple once you know the basics.

In this guide, I’ll break it down step by step, using real examples and strategies you can apply immediately to start importing your own products into Ghana.

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The Three Key Things You Need to Start Importing

To begin your mini importation journey, you only need three things:

1. A Supplier – The person or company you’re buying products from.

2. A Shipping Agent – The middleman who helps bring your products into Ghana.

3. Cash – Even with just 100 cedis, you can start.

Without any of these three, your importation business won’t work.

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Step 1: Finding a Reliable Supplier

The most important part of mini importation is finding a good supplier. Here are the best platforms you can use:

• Alibaba (most recommended)

• AliExpress

• DHgate

• Made-in-China

• 1688.com (Chinese site, requires Google Translate)

👉 Among all these, Alibaba is the most beginner-friendly.

When searching for products on Alibaba, make sure you filter suppliers using these three checks:

• ✅ Verified by Alibaba – Ensures the company is legitimate.

• ✅ Trade Assurance – Protects you from scams and poor-quality products.

• ✅ 3+ Years of Experience – Avoid new sellers with only 1–2 years in the business.

For example, if you’re looking for a face serum, simply search for it in Alibaba. Filter results by "Verified Supplier" and "Trade Assurance," and then choose a seller who has been in business for at least 3 years.

Negotiating With Suppliers

Don’t be afraid to negotiate. Some sellers may list a Minimum Order Quantity (MOQ) of 100 pieces, but if you explain that you’re testing the market, many will allow you to order 10–20 pieces.

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Step 2: Getting a Shipping Agent

Finding a shipping agent can be tricky, especially as a beginner, because many so-called agents online are scammers. That’s why it’s important to go with a trusted one.

One reliable option is Cash Shipping, a well-known company in Ghana (not a sponsored mention).

Instead of paying $55–$60 per kg for DHL or FedEx, a good shipping agent will charge you around $4–$7 per kg. The only difference is delivery speed—air shipping takes about 1–2 weeks, while sea shipping may take up to a month.

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Step 3: Budgeting Your Cash

You can start mini importation with as little as:

• 100 cedis (about $10–$15)

• 200–500 cedis if you want more stock

👉 The trick is to focus on one product at the beginning instead of buying small quantities of many different products.

For instance:

• Instead of buying 2 face serums, 3 lip glosses, 1 makeup spray, 2 wigs, and earrings from different suppliers (which increases shipping costs)…

• Buy 20–50 pieces of one product from a single supplier.

Why? Because every supplier charges a domestic shipping fee (around $2–$3) to send goods to your shipping agent in China. If you use 5 different suppliers, you’ll pay 5 separate fees. That’s wasted money.

Stick to 1–3 products maximum when starting.

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How to Pay for Your Goods

Payment on Alibaba and AliExpress is simple. You can use:

• MasterCard or Visa card

• Your shipping agent (many can pay suppliers on your behalf for a small fee)

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Why Mini Importation is a Smart Business in Ghana

Every day, people in Ghana buy clothes, cosmetics, gadgets, and household items. Many of these are imported from China at very cheap prices and resold locally for big profits.

With just a little capital, you can start small, test the market, and then grow your importation business into something sustainable.

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FAQs About Mini Importation in Ghana

1. Can I really start with just 100 cedis?
Yes! Some suppliers accept small trial orders. The key is to negotiate and choose affordable products.

2. Which platform is best for beginners?
Alibaba and AliExpress are the easiest for beginners. Alibaba is better for bulk buying, while AliExpress works for small orders.

3. How long does shipping take?

• Air freight: 1–2 weeks

• Sea freight: 3–5 weeks

4. Do I need a business license to start?
No, you don’t. Many Ghanaians start mini importation as individuals. You can register later when you’re ready to scale up.

5. What products should I start with?
Cosmetics, fashion items, phone accessories, and household gadgets are popular choices.

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✅ Final Tip: Don’t complicate mini importation. All you need is a reliable supplier, a trusted shipping agent, and some cash. Start small, reinvest your profits, and watch your business grow.