How to Win in the Chinese eCommerce market

The eCommerce market in China has grown to be the largest in the world and doesn’t show any signs of slowing down.

However hardly any foreign eCommerce companies have succeeded in China on a grand scale.

Companies hoping to enter and win in China’s eCommerce market need to develop a strategy around these key elements.

Get Mobile

E-commerce in China is fundamentally mobile. It is estimated that there are more than 1 billion smartphone users. Many Chinese have skipped past PC’s and jumped straight to mobile with nearly 90% of Chinese shoppers using their mobiles to purchase goods and services.

Companies hoping to sell into China must have a mobile-first strategy and ensure and ensure a smooth shopping and checkout experience entirely on mobile applications.

Social Media is incredibly important

Chinese e-commerce is very closely linked to social media sites such as Weibo and WeChat. Chinese buyers and consumers use social media platforms to share product reviews, details of the speed of delivery and their satisfaction with customer service.

Bloggers and KOL’s (key opinion leaders) have become increasingly important and some have huge followings. Brands need to learn how to leverage the influence of KOL’s to communicate to their target customer audience and to build brand loyalty.

Data has become indispensable

More companies are using data and analysis to interpret consumer behaviours and predict future trends. E-commerce in China is increasingly driven by big data.

All of the major market place platforms have increasingly valuable data sources which are being used by major global brands to launch new products and services.

Companies must employ advanced data collecting techniques to remain competitive. Good data can help companies communicate targeted messages and create personalized experiences for their customers.

This is particularly useful in mobile applications. The results are happier customers and greater loyalty.