As the world’s leading trading nation and a GDP of more than $10 trillion, China is an attractive option for business expansion. However, companies cannot simply rely on the marketing strategies in China. Because these marketing campaigns may not resonate with the local Chinese market.It sure is an exciting and still fast-growing market. But to conquer it, you first need to understand it.
China’s market is very segmented, with huge regional differences
Unlike western markets, which are usually consistent inside one country and the same marketing logic can be quickly replicated. And success in one city in China does not mean you can replicate the same marketing tactics elsewhere.
China has its own unique digital ecosystem
Unlike the West, which is dominated by Instagram and Facebook, China’s mainstream Internet platforms are Chinese companies. Understanding digital consumer behavior in China is crucial. Brands must be constantly aligned with this ecosystem with marketing flexible enough to adapt to it. Relevant market and competitor research in China is very important.
Marketing in China-China E-Commerce Rules
Many companies want to target the expansive Chinese market that has more than 1.3 billion consumers. China represents the largest group of ecommerce shoppers in the world with 30% of the cross-border ecommerce market. The Chinese ecommerce market exceeds 8.8 trillion RMB.
China requires that any business that advertises in China obtain a license.While a business may not necessarily need to obtain a license to sell a product in China. It will need a license to legally advertise in the country. Some businesses choose to get around this requirement by working with a trade partner who can distribute their product through their Tmall or JD store.
Marketing in China-Digital Advertising Rules in China
China has strict rules related to online access. Consumers cannot access many of the websites that are popular in the rest of the world. To form an effective digital marketing strategy, you will need to advertise on channels that are accessible and popular in China.
These channels have their own rules and requirements. For example, advertising on Baidu requires that you make a minimum deposit of 10,000 RMB before you can get started and to create an account. Before you can legally take part in any digital advertising, you must obtain a valid industry license. Additionally, many industries have strict rules regarding what type of advertisements you can run. For example, if you are selling health and supplement products in the country, you will need a specific license for this purpose. Some platforms will not allow foreigners to create an account. So you might need to go through a partnered agency who will manage your account and act as your media buyer.
Social Media Advertising
Like in other parts of the world, social media advertising is an important aspect of advertising products in China. The most popular platforms in China for this purpose are WeChat and Weibo. As the largest channels in the country, many businesses use these two major sites to advertise their products. Most digital marketing agencies in China promote these channels. However, there is a cost and time factor involved with using social media advertising. And you should be aware of before implementing your digital marketing strategy. Additionally, other channels may better resonate with particular demographics or industries.
Many businesses choose to work through an agency instead of managing their own advertisement account. Some channels require that you spend a certain amount of money each month on the account to obtain superior support. As part of your digital marketing strategy, you may wish to consider the other social media channels, such as:
Sine Weibo – This is a popular microblogging network in China
Tik Tok or Douyin – A popular video social media platform similar to Snapchat
Youku – These are popular video sites similar to YouTube
Tencent QQ – This is China’s ICQ
Toutiao – This is a popular Ai news platform
It is important to consider which digital channels will help you grow your business in the Asian market. This is where market research really comes in. By researching and studying your target market in China, you can determine the channels that will best position you to market your product.
Deep Digital China can discuss your advertising and marketing needs and help you develop a strategic marketing plan. If you are looking for a professional Chinese digital marketing agency, just donnot hesitate to contact DDC.