Importing from China - Deferring Liability~!

I'm setting up to import granite/stone/tile etc., from a Chinese (American Owned) company. All I want to do is be the marketing/broker/manufacturers representative. The company does business by asking 30% down to fabricate and the balance when completed and a copy of the Bill of Lading is sent/faxed over ready to ship.

I'm confident regarding the company although although it's the management of the money and insuring I obtain payment without absorbing the risk. I'd like the end user (US fabricators/purchasers) to pay the Chinese company direct but that does not reflect any brokerage/commission fees. I can issue a Purchase Order but how should I manage these transactions without incurring the liability? Any suggestions - thank you!

You may want to have reputable banks and/or letters of credit or escrow arrangements. There is so much fraud there that you really do need to be careful. If Americans really are involved check them out thoroughly before you send money as they may be the ones you have to deal with.