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Introduction
For foreign companies entering China, digital marketing is more than just an entry channel—it’s a business lifeline. But China’s digital landscape is filled with complexities: unfamiliar platforms, strict compliance, and distinct consumer behavior. A digital marketing consultant can help foreign companies de-risk their entry and accelerate results. This article outlines the key capabilities a consultant brings to the table.
1. Initial Market Validation and Research
Demand Sizing and Category Research
Consultants help foreign companies assess true demand for their products in China by analyzing marketplace trends, search data, and competitor strategies.
Target Persona Definition
By using tools like QuestMobile and platform-specific audience insights, consultants develop detailed profiles based on age, tiered cities, spending power, and interests.
2. Digital Channel Matching
Choosing Channels Based on Objectives
For B2C companies, consultants may prioritize Douyin and Xiaohongshu. For B2B or premium offerings, WeChat, Zhihu, or Baidu may perform better. Platform fit is critical to ROI.
Omnichannel Execution
Digital consultants coordinate launch messaging across multiple platforms, ensuring users receive consistent narratives whether they’re browsing RED or clicking Baidu ads.
3. Localization of Product and Messaging
Transcreation Over Translation
Effective localization includes adjusting product names, packaging visuals, and campaign tone—not just translating copy. Consultants ensure content feels native to the Chinese user.
Content Style Customization
Consultants help build creative assets that match platform formats—e.g., vertical video for Douyin, swipe posts for RED, and carousel stories for WeChat.
4. Compliance and Technical Enablement
Data and Ad Policy Compliance
Digital consultants guide foreign companies through local advertising laws, product certifications, and PIPL (Personal Information Protection Law) protocols.
Tech Stack Localization
Consultants support backend integration with Alipay, UnionPay, and WeChat Pay while ensuring website speed, mobile UX, and mini-program compatibility meet user expectations.
Case Study: Eastern European Snack Brand Navigates Entry With Consultant Support
A foreign snack company from Eastern Europe partnered with a consultant to enter China. The consultant helped navigate customs regulations, created a Chinese brand name, and launched short video campaigns via RED and Douyin. A WeChat mini-program was set up to collect user feedback and offer rewards. The result was a sold-out first run of inventory and a growing CRM list that could be retargeted during Double 11.
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!
