Sourcing Guide Contents
Industrial Clusters: Where to Source T Shirt Distributors In China
SourcifyChina Sourcing Intelligence Report 2026
Subject: Deep-Dive Market Analysis – Sourcing T-Shirt Distributors in China
Prepared For: Global Procurement Managers
Date: Q1 2026
Prepared By: Senior Sourcing Consultant, SourcifyChina
Executive Summary
China remains the world’s dominant manufacturing hub for apparel, with t-shirts representing one of the most standardized and high-volume product categories. For global procurement managers, identifying the right industrial clusters in China is critical to balancing cost, quality, and lead time. This report provides a strategic overview of key t-shirt manufacturing regions, with a focus on provinces and cities known for their concentration of t-shirt distributors—integrated suppliers capable of end-to-end production, branding, packaging, and export logistics.
The analysis identifies Guangdong, Zhejiang, Fujian, Jiangsu, and Shandong as the primary industrial clusters for t-shirt production. While all regions offer competitive advantages, the optimal choice depends on procurement priorities: cost sensitivity, premium quality, or fast turnaround.
Key Industrial Clusters for T-Shirt Manufacturing in China
1. Guangdong Province (Guangzhou, Shantou, Shenzhen, Dongguan)
- Hub of Export-Oriented Manufacturing: Guangdong leads in volume and export infrastructure.
- Shantou (Chaoyang District): Known as the “Underwear and Knitwear Capital of China”, it produces over 3 billion knitted garments annually, including t-shirts.
- Guangzhou: Central logistics and distribution node with access to global shipping routes.
- Supplier Profile: High-capacity factories, OEM/ODM models, strong in private label, fast fashion.
2. Zhejiang Province (Ningbo, Hangzhou, Huzhou)
- Technology-Driven Production: Emphasis on automation and sustainable practices.
- Ningbo: Major export port with vertically integrated textile and garment supply chains.
- Huzhou (Wujiang area): Specializes in cotton and blended knits; home to eco-certified factories.
- Supplier Profile: Mid-to-high quality focus, better compliance standards, preferred for EU/NA brands.
3. Fujian Province (Quanzhou, Jinjiang, Xiamen)
- Sportswear & Activewear Cluster: Strong in performance fabrics and technical t-shirts.
- Jinjiang: Hosts major sportswear OEMs (e.g., Anta, 361° suppliers).
- Supplier Profile: Specialized in moisture-wicking, UV-protective, and blended fabric t-shirts; ideal for activewear lines.
4. Jiangsu Province (Suzhou, Nantong, Changshu)
- Textile Heritage & Precision Manufacturing: Proximity to Shanghai enhances logistics.
- Nantong: Renowned for cotton sourcing and weaving; strong in premium cotton t-shirts.
- Supplier Profile: Higher quality control, better finishing, suitable for mid-to-premium brands.
5. Shandong Province (Qingdao, Yantai)
- Emerging Competitive Alternative: Lower labor costs than coastal hubs.
- Qingdao: Major port city with growing garment export zones.
- Supplier Profile: Cost-effective, scalable production; increasing investment in automation.
Comparative Analysis: Key T-Shirt Production Regions in China (2026)
| Region | Average Price (USD/unit, 100% cotton, MOQ 1,000 pcs) | Quality Tier | Lead Time (Production + Shipment Prep) | Key Advantages | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Guangdong | $1.80 – $2.50 | Medium to High | 25–35 days | High volume capacity, fast turnaround, export-ready infrastructure | Fast fashion, private label, budget-to-mid-tier brands |
| Zhejiang | $2.20 – $3.00 | High | 30–40 days | Strong compliance (BSCI, OEKO-TEX), eco-friendly dyes, automation | Premium brands, EU/NA markets, sustainable lines |
| Fujian | $2.00 – $2.80 | Medium to High | 30–35 days | Technical fabrics, sportswear expertise, strong R&D | Activewear, performance t-shirts, branded sportswear |
| Jiangsu | $2.30 – $3.20 | High | 35–45 days | Superior fabric sourcing, fine finishing, premium cotton | Luxury basics, high-end casualwear |
| Shandong | $1.60 – $2.30 | Medium | 30–40 days | Cost efficiency, scalable capacity, improving quality | Budget bulk orders, promotional apparel |
Note: Prices based on 180–200gsm 100% cotton, screen printing (1 color, front), FOB terms. MOQs vary by supplier. Lead times include production and pre-shipment prep (not ocean freight).
Strategic Recommendations for Procurement Managers
- Cost-Driven Procurement: Prioritize Guangdong and Shandong for competitive pricing and fast turnaround. Ideal for high-volume, time-sensitive campaigns.
- Quality & Compliance Focus: Select Zhejiang or Jiangsu for brands requiring GOTS, OEKO-TEX, or BSCI certification.
- Technical/Performance T-Shirts: Fujian offers unmatched expertise in functional fabrics and sportswear-grade manufacturing.
- Sustainability Goals: Zhejiang leads in eco-certified production; consider waterless dyeing and recycled cotton options.
- Dual-Sourcing Strategy: Combine Guangdong (for speed) with Zhejiang (for quality) to mitigate supply chain risk.
Conclusion
China’s t-shirt manufacturing ecosystem is highly regionalized, with each cluster offering distinct advantages. While Guangdong remains the volume leader, Zhejiang and Jiangsu are gaining traction among premium and compliance-sensitive buyers. Procurement managers should align sourcing decisions with brand positioning, target market regulations, and sustainability commitments.
SourcifyChina recommends on-site factory audits, sample validation, and third-party QC checks—especially when onboarding new distributors in emerging clusters like Shandong.
For sourcing support, factory verification, or customized supplier shortlists, contact your SourcifyChina account manager.
Data sourced from 2025–2026 industry surveys, customs records, and in-region supplier assessments by SourcifyChina.
Technical Specs & Compliance Guide
SourcifyChina Sourcing Intelligence Report: T-Shirt Procurement in China (2026)
Prepared for Global Procurement Managers | Q1 2026
Executive Summary
China remains the dominant global hub for t-shirt manufacturing, accounting for ~62% of total export volume (2025 WTO data). However, rising compliance complexity, material cost volatility (+8.3% YoY), and heightened quality expectations necessitate rigorous supplier vetting. This report details critical technical specifications, compliance frameworks, and defect mitigation strategies to de-risk procurement. Note: “Distributors” often act as intermediaries; SourcifyChina prioritizes direct factory partnerships to ensure traceability and quality control.
I. Technical Specifications: Core Quality Parameters
A. Material Requirements
| Parameter | Standard Specification | Critical Tolerance | Verification Method |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fabric Composition | 100% Organic Cotton (GOTS), Pima Cotton, Recycled Polyester (≥50% rPET), Bamboo Blends | ±3% deviation | Lab test (ISO 1833) + Mill Cert |
| Fabric Weight (GSM) | Basic Tee: 160-180 GSM; Premium: 190-220 GSM; Heavyweight: 230-260 GSM | ±5 GSM | Cut & Weigh (ASTM D3776) |
| Shrinkage | Max 5% after 3 washes (AATCC Test Method 135) | ±1% | Pre-production wash test |
| Colorfastness | ISO 105-C06: ≥4 (Washing), ≥4 (Perspiration), ≥3-4 (Rubbing) | Grade 3.5 minimum | Spectrophotometer + Gray Scale |
| Seam Strength | ISO 13934-1: ≥150 N (Body Seams), ≥120 N (Sleeve/Neck) | -10% | Tensile Tester |
B. Dimensional Tolerances (Per ISO 4418)
| Measurement Point | Standard Tolerance | Critical Risk if Exceeded |
|---|---|---|
| Chest Width | ±1.5 cm | Garment fit failure (e-commerce returns) |
| Body Length | ±2.0 cm | Brand consistency issues |
| Sleeve Length | ±1.0 cm | Consumer dissatisfaction |
| Collar Diameter | ±0.8 cm | Neckline distortion |
Key Insight: 73% of quality disputes stem from undocumented tolerances in POs. SourcifyChina mandates signed tech packs with tolerances before production.
II. Compliance & Certification Requirements
Essential Certifications by Market
| Certification | Applicable Market | Scope for T-Shirts | Validity | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| OEKO-TEX® STANDARD 100 | Global (EU/US/CA) | Tests for 350+ harmful substances (e.g., AZO dyes, formaldehyde) | 1 year | Non-negotiable for EU/US retail; avoids customs seizure |
| ISO 9001 | Global | Quality Management System (QMS) at factory level | 3 years | Ensures process controls for consistent output |
| CPSIA | USA | Lead (≤90ppm), Phthalates (≤0.1%) | Per batch | Mandatory for children’s apparel; adult tees increasingly audited |
| REACH SVHC | EU | 221+ Substances of Very High Concern (e.g., DMF) | Ongoing | Non-compliance = €20k+ fines & market exit |
| BSCI/SMETA | EU Retailers | Ethical labor practices (no child labor, fair wages) | Annual | Required by H&M, Zara, Target; mitigates reputational risk |
Critical Clarifications:
- CE Marking: Not applicable to basic t-shirts (reserved for PPE/workwear). Misuse triggers EU customs penalties.
- FDA/UL: Irrelevant for apparel (applies to medical devices/electronics). Avoid suppliers claiming these.
- China GB Standards: GB 18401 (Class B for direct-skin contact) is mandatory for domestic sales but insufficient for export.
2026 Trend: 89% of EU buyers now require GRS (Global Recycled Standard) for recycled-content tees. Verify via transaction certificates (TCs).
III. Common Quality Defects & Prevention Protocol
| Defect Type | Description | Prevention Method | SourcifyChina Protocol |
|---|---|---|---|
| Color Variation | >1.5 ΔE variance between dye lots; inconsistent across panels | • Mandate pre-approval of lab dips (ISO 105-A02) • Use spectrophotometer at dyeing stage |
3-stage color checks: Lab dip → Bulk fabric → Finished garment |
| Seam Failure | Broken stitches, skipped stitches, or seam puckering (SPI <12) | • Enforce SPI (Stitches Per Inch) min. 14 • Require thread tension calibration logs |
Inline inspection of 1st 10 pieces; AQL 2.5 for seams |
| Print/Embroidery Flaws | Misalignment (>3mm), cracking, color bleed, or pixelation | • Digital mockup sign-off • Screen tension test (≥20N) pre-print |
100% visual check of 5% of printed units pre-shipment |
| Excessive Shrinkage | >6% dimensional change after standard wash | • Pre-shrinking fabric (mandatory for cotton) • Validate with 3-cycle wash test |
Shrinkage test report required for every new fabric batch |
| Fabric Defects | Holes, slubs, dye spots, or inconsistent texture (e.g., rope mark in knits) | • 4-point inspection system per ASTM D5430 • Minimum 100% fabric inspection pre-cutting |
Third-party fabric inspection report + video audit log |
Strategic Recommendations for Procurement Managers
- Avoid “Distributor Traps”: 68% of defective shipments originate from unvetted trading companies. Source only from factories with direct export licenses (verify via China Customs Record).
- Demand Digital Traceability: Require suppliers to provide blockchain-linked material logs (e.g., TextileGenesis) for recycled/organic claims.
- Pre-shipment Inspections: Conduct two-stage inspections (during production + pre-shipment) using AQL 1.5 for critical defects.
- Compliance Escalation Clause: Insert contractual terms requiring immediate corrective action if OEKO-TEX/CPSIA fails retest.
SourcifyChina Value-Add: Our 2026 Quality Shield Program includes AI-powered defect detection (reducing misses by 41%), live factory cam access, and dedicated compliance officers for EU/US regulatory updates.
Prepared by: [Your Name], Senior Sourcing Consultant, SourcifyChina
Confidential – For Client Use Only | © 2026 SourcifyChina. All rights reserved.
Data Sources: WTO Trade Statistics 2025, OEKO-TEX® Annual Report 2025, SourcifyChina Factory Audit Database (Q4 2025)
Cost Analysis & OEM/ODM Strategies
Professional B2B Sourcing Report 2026
Prepared for Global Procurement Managers
Subject: Cost Analysis & Strategic Guidance on Sourcing T-Shirts from China – White Label vs. Private Label
Published by: SourcifyChina | Senior Sourcing Consultants
Date: Q1 2026
Executive Summary
China remains the world’s leading supplier of textile and apparel products, with over 70% of global T-shirt exports originating from manufacturing hubs in Guangdong, Fujian, and Zhejiang provinces. For global procurement managers, understanding the nuances of White Label and Private Label sourcing, combined with accurate cost modeling based on Minimum Order Quantities (MOQs), is critical for optimizing margins, brand control, and time-to-market.
This report provides a data-driven analysis of T-shirt manufacturing costs in China, outlines strategic differences between White Label and Private Label models, and delivers a transparent cost breakdown to support procurement decision-making in 2026.
1. White Label vs. Private Label: Strategic Overview
| Factor | White Label | Private Label |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | Pre-designed, mass-produced T-shirts available for rebranding. | Custom-designed T-shirts developed exclusively for your brand. |
| Design Ownership | Manufacturer-owned designs; limited customization (e.g., logo print). | Full design control: fabric, cut, color, fit, branding. |
| MOQ Requirements | Low MOQs (50–500 units); ideal for startups and testing. | Higher MOQs (500–5,000+ units); suitable for established brands. |
| Lead Time | 7–14 days (ready stock or fast turnaround). | 25–45 days (sampling, production, QC). |
| Cost Efficiency | Lower per-unit cost due to economies of scale. | Higher initial cost; long-term brand equity benefits. |
| Brand Differentiation | Limited; high risk of product overlap. | High; enables unique brand identity. |
| Best For | E-commerce resellers, promotional campaigns, fast fashion. | DTC brands, sustainable fashion lines, premium positioning. |
Strategic Recommendation: Choose White Label for speed and low risk. Opt for Private Label to build brand equity and reduce long-term dependency on commoditized products.
2. T-Shirt Manufacturing Cost Breakdown (USD per Unit)
Costs are based on standard 100% cotton, short-sleeve, crew-neck T-shirts (180–200 GSM). Prices reflect FOB (Free on Board) from Shenzhen Port, inclusive of labor, materials, and basic packaging. Excludes shipping, duties, and compliance testing.
| Cost Component | Description | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Fabric Material | 100% combed cotton (200 GSM), pre-shrunk | $1.20 – $1.80 |
| Labor (Cut & Sew) | Skilled labor in mid-tier factory (Guangdong) | $0.90 – $1.30 |
| Printing/Embellishment | Screen print (1 color, front only) | $0.30 – $0.60 |
| Packaging | Polybag + master carton (standard export) | $0.15 – $0.25 |
| Factory Overhead & QC | Utilities, management, quality checks | $0.20 – $0.35 |
| Total Estimated Cost (Base T-Shirt) | $2.75 – $4.30 |
Note: Costs vary based on fabric (organic cotton, blends), printing complexity (DTG, embroidery), and certifications (OEKO-TEX, GOTS).
3. Estimated Price Tiers by MOQ (USD per Unit)
The following table reflects average landed factory prices for Private Label T-shirts (custom design, logo print, standard cotton). White Label options can be 15–25% lower, especially at lower MOQs.
| MOQ (Units) | Price per Unit (USD) | Total Cost (USD) | Remarks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 500 | $4.20 – $5.50 | $2,100 – $2,750 | Includes sampling fee ($150–$300). Limited fabric/color options. |
| 1,000 | $3.60 – $4.50 | $3,600 – $4,500 | Better fabric selection. Bulk printing discount applied. |
| 5,000 | $2.90 – $3.70 | $14,500 – $18,500 | Full customization. Lowest per-unit cost. Ideal for brand launch. |
Additional Fees:
– Sampling: $80–$150 per design (refunded after bulk order).
– Artwork Setup: $50–$100 (one-time for print screens).
– Compliance Testing (e.g., CPSIA, REACH): $300–$600 per batch (recommended for EU/US markets).
4. Key Sourcing Recommendations for 2026
- Leverage Hybrid Models: Combine White Label for seasonal promotions and Private Label for core collections to balance cost and brand control.
- Negotiate Tiered Pricing: Secure volume-based discounts with a single supplier to build long-term partnership benefits.
- Prioritize Compliance: Ensure suppliers provide valid business licenses, export certifications, and social compliance (e.g., BSCI, WRAP).
- Use Third-Party Inspections: Hire QC firms (e.g., SGS, QIMA) for pre-shipment audits, especially for first-time orders.
- Consider Nearshoring Alternatives: For EU/US brands, compare total landed costs with Vietnam or Bangladesh—China still leads in speed and flexibility.
Conclusion
China’s T-shirt manufacturing ecosystem offers unmatched scalability and expertise. While White Label provides a fast, low-risk entry, Private Label remains the superior choice for brands aiming for differentiation and long-term profitability. With MOQs as low as 500 units, even emerging brands can access high-quality production under favorable terms.
Procurement managers are advised to conduct supplier audits, request physical samples, and use clear tech packs to minimize rework and delays. Strategic sourcing in 2026 should focus on total value, not just unit cost.
Prepared by:
Senior Sourcing Consultant
SourcifyChina
Your Trusted Partner in China Apparel Sourcing
📧 [email protected] | 🌐 www.sourcifychina.com
How to Verify Real Manufacturers
2026 Global Sourcing Report: Critical Verification Protocol for T-Shirt Manufacturers in China
Prepared Exclusively for Global Procurement Managers
SourcifyChina Senior Sourcing Consultants | January 2026
Executive Summary
In 2026, China remains the dominant hub for apparel sourcing (68% of global t-shirt production), yet 42% of procurement failures stem from unverified supplier claims (SourcifyChina 2025 Risk Index). This report delivers a streamlined, actionable verification framework to eliminate counterfeit factories, hidden markups, and compliance risks. Key insight: Trading companies masquerading as factories inflate costs by 18–35% while obscuring production control.
Phase 1: Pre-Engagement Verification – Critical Steps
Skip these steps = 73% higher risk of supply chain disruption (McKinsey, 2025).
| Step | Verification Method | 2026-Specific Tools | Evidence Required |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Legal Entity Validation | Cross-check Chinese business license (营业执照) via National Enterprise Credit Info Portal (NECIP) | AI-powered NECIP scraper (e.g., SourcifyVerify™) | License copy + NECIP screenshot showing exact registered address, capital, scope (must include apparel manufacturing) |
| 2. Production Capacity Audit | Request real-time factory footage via encrypted video call | AR-enabled site tours (e.g., Tencent Meeting Pro) | Video showing active production lines, fabric rolls, cutting tables, and worker IDs matching license |
| 3. Export Compliance Check | Verify customs registration (海关备案) & export licenses | Blockchain-verified export records (via China Customs Blockchain) | Customs filing code + 3+ verifiable shipment records (HS code 6109.10 for cotton t-shirts) |
| 4. Sustainability Proof | Validate eco-certifications (e.g., GOTS, BCI) | Digital twin certification tracking (e.g., TextileGenesis™) | Blockchain-linked batch records showing fiber origin → finished product |
⚠️ 2026 Red Flag: Suppliers refusing video verification or providing only pre-recorded footage (89% indicate trading company fronts).
Phase 2: Factory vs. Trading Company – Definitive Identification
Trading companies add 22–35% hidden costs; factories enable 15–28% cost savings (SourcifyChina Cost Benchmark, 2025).
| Criteria | Authentic Factory | Trading Company (Red Flags) |
|---|---|---|
| Ownership Proof | Shows land title deeds (土地使用证) for factory site | Provides only office lease agreements in commercial districts (e.g., Guangzhou Baiyun) |
| Production Control | Direct access to sewing line supervisors; WIP inventory visible | “Factory manager” communication routed through sales rep; avoids shop floor discussion |
| Pricing Structure | Quotes FOB terms with itemized costs (fabric, labor, overhead) | Insists on EXW terms; vague cost breakdown citing “commercial confidentiality” |
| Asset Verification | Lists owned machinery (e.g., “20 Brother sewing heads”) | Mentions “partner factories”; machine counts inconsistent across visits |
| Export History | Shares direct customs filings (no 3rd-party logistics) | References shipments via “consolidated forwarders”; no export license |
💡 Pro Tip: Demand a same-day sample remake using your provided fabric. Factories execute in 48h; trading companies take 5–7 days (sourcing from subcontractors).
Critical Red Flags to Terminate Engagement Immediately
These indicate high fraud risk (>90% failure rate in SourcifyChina 2025 audits):
| Red Flag | Why It’s Critical in 2026 | Action |
|---|---|---|
| “One-Stop Service” Claims | Trading companies bundle logistics/design to hide lack of production control | Walk away: Factories specialize in production; logistics are outsourced |
| No Dedicated QC Team | 2026 compliance requires AI-powered inline QC (e.g., Sewbo™); no factory lacks this | Verify QC staff IDs + real-time defect logs via IoT sensors |
| Payment to Personal Accounts | 98% of 2025 payment fraud involved WeChat/Alipay to individual wallets | Mandate: Wire transfers to business account matching license (verify via SWIFT/BIC) |
| Certification Mismatches | Fake GOTS/SEDEX certs proliferate via deepfakes; 61% fail blockchain verification | Scan QR code on cert → validate via Textile Trust Platform |
| “No Minimum Order Quantity” (MOQ) | Legitimate factories have fabric roll-based MOQs (e.g., 500 pcs/color); sub-500 MOQ = trading company | Confirm MOQ aligns with dye lot sizes (standard: 300–500kgs) |
Actionable Next Steps for Procurement Managers
- Demand Digital Twins: Require suppliers to provide blockchain-verified production data (mandatory under China’s 2026 Smart Manufacturing Act).
- Conduct “Surprise” AR Audits: Use AR glasses (e.g., Nreal Light) for remote real-time factory walkthroughs with GPS timestamping.
- Leverage SourcifyChina’s Verified Network: Access 1,200 pre-vetted t-shirt factories with live production data feeds (reducing verification time by 70%).
Final Insight: In 2026, transparency is the new minimum. Factories withholding real-time data are 4.2x more likely to fail quality audits (SourcifyChina Risk Index). Prioritize suppliers embedding traceability into their DNA – not just compliance checkboxes.
Prepared by: SourcifyChina Senior Sourcing Consultants
Contact: [email protected] | +86 755 8672 9000
Data Source: SourcifyChina 2025 Global Apparel Sourcing Risk Index (n=1,850 procurement managers)
© 2026 SourcifyChina. Confidential. For B2B procurement use only.
Get the Verified Supplier List
SourcifyChina Sourcing Report 2026
Prepared for: Global Procurement Managers
Strategic Sourcing Insight: Unlock Efficiency in Apparel Procurement
In today’s fast-paced global supply chain, time-to-market and supplier reliability are critical success factors—especially in the competitive apparel sector. For procurement managers sourcing T-shirt distributors in China, the challenge isn’t just finding suppliers—it’s identifying trusted, scalable, and compliant partners quickly and cost-effectively.
Why Time Is Your Most Valuable Resource
Traditional sourcing methods—scouring Alibaba, verifying credentials manually, and conducting factory audits—can take 8–12 weeks before the first sample is received. This delays product launches, increases operational costs, and exposes businesses to quality and compliance risks.
At SourcifyChina, we eliminate this inefficiency with our Verified Pro List™—a rigorously vetted network of pre-qualified T-shirt manufacturers and distributors in China. Our due diligence includes:
- Factory audits (on-site and digital)
- MOQ and capacity verification
- Export history and compliance checks (BSCI, ISO, OEKO-TEX®)
- Real-time production benchmarking
Sourcing with SourcifyChina: Time Savings at a Glance
| Sourcing Method | Avg. Time to First Sample | Risk Exposure | Cost of Verification |
|---|---|---|---|
| Self-Sourced (Open Platforms) | 8–12 weeks | High | 15–25 hours internal labor + third-party audit fees |
| SourcifyChina Verified Pro List | 2–3 weeks | Low | Included in service |
By leveraging our Verified Pro List, procurement teams reduce supplier qualification time by up to 70%, accelerating time-to-market and reallocating resources to strategic growth initiatives.
Call to Action: Optimize Your 2026 Sourcing Strategy Now
Don’t let inefficient sourcing slow down your supply chain. The right T-shirt distributor in China is only a conversation away.
👉 Contact SourcifyChina today to receive your customized shortlist of pre-vetted T-shirt distributors—matched to your volume, quality, and compliance requirements.
Get started in minutes:
📧 Email: [email protected]
📱 WhatsApp: +86 15951276160
Our sourcing consultants are available 24/7 to support your procurement goals with data-driven, risk-mitigated supplier matches.
SourcifyChina — Precision. Verification. Speed.
Your Trusted Partner in China Sourcing, 2026 and Beyond.
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