(Source: https://pltfrm.com.cn)
Introduction
Billions of dollars are shifting toward new in-app ad formats that Chinese users actually enjoy. Overseas brands that master these emerging placements are outpacing competitors by 3–5× in revenue growth. Here are the formats delivering the highest returns in 2025.
1. Douyin Full-Screen Vertical Video Ads
1.1 9–15 Second Hook + CTA Formula The highest-converting creatives follow a strict structure: 3-second hook → 6-second value demonstration → strong CTA in the final 3 seconds. Brands following this template see 4.2% CTR and ROAS above 7× consistently.
1.2 Interactive Card Overlays Adding poll, countdown, or swipe-up cards increases engagement by 180% and conversion by 62%. Overseas cosmetics brands report 40–55% of total app revenue now coming from interactive card variations.
2. WeChat Moments Interactive Ads
2.1 Video + Mini-Program Native Integration Moments ads that open directly into Mini-Programs achieve 5–7× higher conversion than traditional link-outs. Luxury and automotive brands see AOV 2.8× higher when users stay inside the WeChat ecosystem.
2.2 Lookalike + Retargeting Combination Combining 5% lookalike audiences with dynamic product retargeting delivers CPI under ¥12 for high-ticket items. Top campaigns maintain ROAS above 5× even at seven-figure daily spend.
3. Splash & Banner Evolution into Native Experiences
3.1 Launch-Screen Video Ads 5–7 second non-skippable launch ads on top apps now include direct “install now” buttons. Gaming companies report 35–50% of total installs coming from this single placement.
3.2 Smart Banner with Deep Link Banners that detect user context and show personalized offers (e.g., “Your cart is waiting”) achieve 8–12× higher click-through than generic creatives.
4. Live Commerce + App Install Integration
4.1 Live-to-App Seamless Flow KOLs broadcasting on Douyin and Taobao Live now add one-tap app download buttons that pre-fill user info. Fashion apps see 28–35% of live viewers installing and purchasing within the same session.
Case Study: American Fitness App (Jan–Mar 2025)
By focusing 65% of budget on Douyin interactive cards and WeChat Moments Mini-Program ads, a U.S. fitness app generated ¥92 million in subscription revenue with an average 30-day LTV of ¥446 per user—making China its #1 revenue market globally within 90 days.
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!
