Opening a store on Tmall, which is one of China’s largest e-commerce platforms, requires a comprehensive set of materials and preparations. Here’s a general outline of what you need to consider and prepare:
1.Business Registration Documents:
You need to provide legal business registration documents. This typically includes a business license and tax registration. If you’re a foreign company, you will need to provide equivalent documents from your country.
2.Brand Authorization:
If you are selling branded products, you need to provide proof that you are authorized to sell these brands. This includes brand authorization or licensing agreements.
3.Product Information and Certifications:
Detailed information about your products, including descriptions, specifications, and images. Depending on the category of goods, you may also need to provide relevant certifications or testing reports, especially for categories like cosmetics, health products, and food items.
4.Bank Account Information:
Information about your company’s bank account. Tmall may require a Chinese bank account for transactions.
5.Deposit and Fees:
Be prepared to pay a security deposit and service fees. The amount varies depending on the category of products you plan to sell.
6.Chinese Language Capabilities:
As Tmall is a Chinese platform, you will need to have all your materials (including product listings, customer service communications, etc.) in Chinese. Hiring a translator or a team member fluent in Chinese is advisable.
7.E-commerce Operations Plan:
This includes logistics, inventory management, returns policy, and customer service strategy. Tmall shoppers expect fast shipping and responsive customer service.
8.Quality Product Images and Descriptions:
High-quality images and detailed product descriptions in Chinese are essential for attracting customers on Tmall.
9.Marketing and Promotion Plan:
Develop a plan for marketing your store and products on Tmall. This may include participating in Tmall’s promotional events, using Tmall’s advertising tools, and integrating with social media platforms like Weibo or Douyin (TikTok in China).
10.Compliance with Chinese Laws and Regulations:
Ensure that your store and products comply with all relevant Chinese laws and regulations, including consumer rights, advertising standards, and data protection laws.
11.Technical Integration:
Be prepared for the technical integration required to set up your store on Tmall, including setting up payment gateways, order management systems, and potentially integrating with your existing e-commerce systems.
12.Customer Engagement Strategy:
Plan for how you will engage with customers, including handling customer inquiries, reviews, and after-sales service.
It’s important to note that Tmall has specific requirements and standards that must be met, and these can vary depending on the product category. Additionally, the platform is highly competitive, so having a clear business and marketing strategy is crucial for success. If you’re new to the Chinese market, it might be beneficial to work with a local agency or consultant who specializes in Tmall store setup and management.
PLTFRM is an international brand consulting agency that works with companies such as Red, Tiktok, Tmall, Baidu, and other well-known Chinese internet e-commerce platforms. We have been working with Chile Cherries for many years, reaching Chinese consumers in depth through different platforms and realizing that Chile Cherries exports in China account for 97% of the total exports in Asia. Contact us and we will help you find the best China e-commerce platform for you. Search pltfrm for a free consultation!
