(Source: https://pltfrm.com.cn)
Introduction
In 2025, the average Chinese consumer lives inside only 4–5 apps that handle messaging, payments, shopping, travel, food delivery, and entertainment. For overseas brands, the new rule is simple: if you are not inside these super apps, you are invisible.
1. The “Everything App” Race Is Over — WeChat Won
1.1 One App for 1.3 Billion Touchpoints
- WeChat now combines WhatsApp, Instagram, Amazon, Uber, and PayPal in a single green icon. 1.2 Channels + Mini-Programs = Full Customer Journey
- Brands can now acquire, transact, service, and re-engage customers without ever leaving WeChat.
2. Douyin Evolved From Short Video Into Full-Funnel Commerce
2.1 From Awareness to Repeat Purchase in <7 Seconds
- Seamless checkout and integrated logistics turned impulse viewing into instant buying.
2.2 Interest Graph > Search Intent - Douyin’s algorithm knows user preferences better than Google ever could.
3. Meituan Controls Local Life Services
3.1 700 Million Users for Food, Travel, and Entertainment
- Overseas hotel and attraction brands must list on Meituan/Dianping to reach domestic tourists. 3.2 Instant Booking + Payment + Review Loop
4. Xiaohongshu & Bilibili Own Niche Premium Communities
4.1 Xiaohongshu = Pinterest + Instagram + Amazon Reviews
- Highest trust score among Gen-Z and millennial women.
4.2 Bilibili Became the Home for Gaming, Anime, and Tech Enthusiasts
Case Study: Italian Coffee Machine Brand
A premium Italian espresso machine brand entered China in 2023 with only a Tmall store. After working with PLTFRM to deploy WeChat mini-program + Douyin live commerce + Xiaohongshu community operation in 2024–2025, their AOV rose 340 % and they became the #2 imported brand in the category.
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!
