(Source: https://pltfrm.com.cn)
Introduction
Setting up a Chinese website in 2025 requires navigating ICP licensing, mainland hosting, and Baidu optimization—yet the entire process can be completed in 8–12 weeks with the right partners. Done correctly, your site becomes a powerful private-traffic engine that integrates perfectly with WeChat, Douyin, and payment ecosystems.
- Legal Structure and ICP Preparation
1.1 Choosing Your Licensing Path Option A – ICP Holding: Fastest route (20–30 days) using established Chinese companies that hold the license in your brand’s name. Option B – Hong Kong Company + Mainland Sponsor: Full control while meeting regulatory requirements. Documentation Needed: Brand authorization letter, trademark certificate, and passport copies.
1.2 Domain Registration Strategy .CN Priority: Register both yourbrand.cn and yourbrand.com.cn for maximum trust and SEO value. Real-Name Verification: All .cn domains require identity verification completed within 5 days.
- Technical Infrastructure Setup
2.1 Selecting Approved Hosting Providers Tier-1 Choices: Alibaba Cloud (HiChina), Tencent Cloud, or UCloud—all offer one-click ICP filing assistance. Server Configuration: Minimum dual-line BGP for north-south compatibility and automatic failover.
2.2 Security and Compliance Features Mandatory SSL: Free certificates available via Let’s Encrypt China or paid CNNIC versions. Police Filing: Register site with local Public Security Bureau within 30 days of launch (display gray shield icon).
- Development and Functionality Integration
3.1 CMS and Framework Selection WeChat-Ready Systems: WordPress with China-optimized plugins, or custom development on Laravel/ThinkPHP. Mini-Program Bridge: Implement official WeChat H5-to-mini-program jump code on every product page.
3.2 E-Commerce and Lead Features Seamless Checkout: Direct integration with PingPong or LianLian for overseas merchant accounts. CRM Sync: Connect forms to Feishu, Enterprise WeChat, or Salesforce China for instant lead routing.
- Case Study: An Italian Fashion House’s Award-Winning Chinese Site Launch
A Milan-based luxury fashion brand used ICP holding service combined with Alibaba Cloud hosting to launch a fully responsive Chinese site in just 10 weeks. Features included WeChat one-click login, AR virtual try-on linked to their mini-program, and Baidu SEO-optimized blog content. The site immediately ranked page-1 for brand + category terms and drove 45% of their 2025 China online sales—surpassing their Tmall flagship store during fashion week periods.
Conclusion
The technical and regulatory hurdles of launching a Chinese website are now streamlined and predictable. Overseas brands that follow this structured approach gain a permanent, high-converting digital asset in the world’s largest online market.
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 overseas brands for many years, helping them achieve deep localization and significant market penetration through tailored strategies on multiple platforms. Contact us, and we will help you find the best China e-commerce platform for you. Search PLTFRM for a free consultation!
