(Source: https://pltfrm.com.cn)
Introduction
As more international companies look to expand into China, cross-border e-commerce (CBEC) has emerged as the most efficient path to market. By bypassing the need for a domestic business license or physical infrastructure, CBEC allows global brands to sell directly to Chinese consumers using digital storefronts, bonded warehousing, and AI-powered operations. In this article, we explore how international companies can tap into this powerful channel to unlock growth in China.
1. Strategic Launch with Platform and Partner Selection
1.1 Choosing the Right Platform Entry Point
Tmall Global, JD Worldwide, Kaola, and Douyin all offer CBEC access—but not all are equally suited for every category. AI-enabled solutions help brands determine where their products are most likely to succeed based on pricing, product type, and consumer behavior.
1.2 Partnering with Certified Service Providers
Cross-border platform entry often requires partnerships with TP (Tmall Partners) or JD certified agencies. The best CBEC solutions include vetted partners offering support for listing, compliance, and promotion.
2. Customs, Tax, and Logistics Made Simple
2.1 Automated Tariff and Duty Calculations
CBEC platforms include modules that calculate duties and taxes on a per-item basis in real time—reducing pricing errors and ensuring transparency for Chinese consumers.
2.2 Streamlined Bonded Warehouse and Direct Mail Integration
Brands can toggle between bonded zone fulfillment and direct shipping depending on the product and sales forecast. AI suggests the most cost-effective model for each sales period.
3. Full Localization of Product and Brand Experience
3.1 Translation and SEO Optimization
Beyond simple translation, CBEC systems now offer AI-generated Chinese content optimized for each platform’s internal search engine. This boosts product discoverability and relevance.
3.2 Visual Storytelling with Chinese Consumer Preferences
AI adapts global product visuals to Chinese digital aesthetics—modifying layout, color schemes, and callouts to appeal to local users on Douyin, RED, and JD.
4. Sales Enablement and Growth Scaling
4.1 Real-Time Sales Analytics and Inventory Sync
CBEC platforms offer unified dashboards that connect inventory, promotion, and logistics data—empowering brands to scale while maintaining control and consistency across platforms.
4.2 Expansion via Private Traffic Channels
Once established, international companies can link their CBEC stores to private traffic tools—such as WeChat Work and Mini-Programs—to build owned audiences and reduce dependency on paid channels.
Case Study: German Premium Kitchenware Brand Grows Fast via CBEC Strategy
A premium German kitchenware company launched in China through JD Worldwide with support from a cross-border e-commerce consultancy. AI tools guided SKU selection, pricing, and ad strategy across multiple channels. With bonded zone fulfillment, seamless integration to RED KOL campaigns, and ongoing conversion optimization, the brand achieved ¥8.2M in GMV within four months and built a 20K-strong WeChat CRM base for future retargeting.
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!
info@pltfrm.cn
www.pltfrm.cn