In previous posts we discussed how much easier, cheaper and faster it is to export to China via cross-border e-commerce. Moreover, as this is a growing market, it means there are more potential customers than ever before.
This incredible demand for Western products should inspire new brands to enter China. At Qing, we try to ensure that your brand has an accurate idea of both the advantages and the challenges of working in China. To simply make your brand available in China does not automatically translate into sales. Being a 'Western product' is simply no longer enough for Chinese consumers who are increasingly brand aware.
Likewise, success in Europe does not translate into automatic success in China for a brand - think Uber. Generall speaking globally successful brands do attract Chinese shoppers, but building brand awareness for niche products takes time, effort and awareness of Chinese consumers, particularly those using cross-border e-commerce platforms.
As is evident, China's 181 million cross-border e-consumers are not homogenous. Like every market, age, income, region, education and gender all factor into consumption decisions. There is no single 'Chinese consumer'. This means that there is a limit to potential Chinese consumers for each brand, as in any market. However, it should encourage smaller niche brand that their product might well be a hit with certain shoppers.
While cross-border e-commerce is relatively low cost and low risk - when working in partnership with Qing - there will be an inevitable process of trial-and-error even with the best market research available.
Choosing who to partner within the industry depends on the specific needs of your company, there is no one size fits all. At Qing, we can offer access to top e-commerce platforms without cost to your company. Estimated costs of being present on the biggest platforms comes at a cost; experts estimate a minimum of 1 million RMB (± €130 000) in expenses per annum.
In either case, entering the Chinese market requires ongoing human and capital investments. Entering the Chinese market requires commitment on operational and management level.
Despite these challenges, the opportunities remain incredible. At Qing, we believe there has never been a better time to enter the Chinese market. Contact us at Qing to find out how we can mitigate the above challenges and risks together.
