(Source: https://pltfrm.com.cn)
Introduction
Many international companies underestimate how different China’s search landscape really is. They apply global SEO tactics, only to find their visibility stagnant and traffic low. With the right SEO consulting partner, these missteps can be quickly corrected—and replaced with strategies tailored for Baidu and local user behaviors. This article explores the most common mistakes international companies make in China and how to fix them for better SEO results.
1. Using Google-Centric SEO Practices
Incorrect Meta and Schema Implementation
Baidu does not interpret all of Google’s structured data or JavaScript-based rendering. Consultants help simplify code and adopt China-specific markup protocols.
Failure to Prioritize Mobile
Google has shifted to mobile-first, but in China, mobile-first is the default. Consultants optimize tap zones, image sizes, and navigation for Chinese smartphone UX.
2. Ignoring the Value of Local Hosting
Latency and Load Time Issues
Sites hosted overseas often load slowly in China, hurting bounce rates and rankings. SEO consultants move assets to Aliyun or Tencent Cloud to fix performance bottlenecks.
No ICP License Penalty
Without proper ICP documentation, Baidu deprioritizes your site. Consultants guide you through acquiring or partnering for compliant hosting infrastructure.
3. Thin or Poorly Localized Content
Over-Reliance on Translation
Word-for-word translations can be awkward or misaligned with local norms. Consultants employ native content creators who understand tone, idioms, and format preferences.
No Seasonal or Social Alignment
SEO content must reflect current platform trends, holidays (like Qixi or 11.11), and user-generated discussions—especially on platforms like Zhihu or RED.
4. Missing Out on Link Opportunities
No Chinese Backlink Network
Many international companies try to build backlinks from global sources. Baidu, however, values local links from .cn domains and Chinese-language platforms.
Overlooking PR and EDU Links
Consultants help secure backlinks from trusted sources like academic sites, local directories, and press releases on Chinese media outlets.
Case Study: European E-Learning Company Recovers From SEO Decline
A European edtech platform saw flat Baidu traffic despite launching Mandarin-language content. Their consultant identified non-indexed pages, poor hosting speed, and lack of localization. A full SEO overhaul was done: content was rewritten in native Chinese, backlinks were acquired through education blogs, and a Baidu-compliant sitemap was implemented. Within three months, their traffic had more than doubled, and bounce rate dropped by 35%.
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!
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