(Source: https://pltfrm.com.cn)
Setting up a store and selling on Tmall as an overseas company involves a structured process, as Tmall is one of the top e-commerce platforms in China. The process requires careful planning and adherence to Tmall’s requirements. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
1. Determine Eligibility:
- Ensure your business is legally registered outside of mainland China.
- Make sure you hold the trademark for the products you plan to sell (registered in any country).
2. Choose the Right Tmall Platform:
- Tmall Global: Designed for international brands and merchants, allowing them to sell directly to Chinese consumers without a legal entity in China.
- Tmall Classic: Requires a legal entity in China and is more suitable for companies with a significant presence in the country.
For most overseas companies without a China entity, Tmall Global is the appropriate choice.
3. Gather Required Documentation:
- Business license and company registration certificate.
- Trademark registration certificate.
- Product-related certifications and licenses, if applicable.
- Bank account details.
4. Select Store Type:
Tmall Global offers different types of stores. Choose one that aligns with your brand:
- Flagship Store: For brand owners or authorized agencies.
- Specialty Store: For brand authorized merchants (selling products from multiple brands).
- Flagship Store (Marketplace): For legal entities owning multiple brands.
5. Find a Tmall Partner (TP):
Engage with a Tmall Partner, which is essentially an agency approved by Tmall to assist brands in opening and operating stores. They provide crucial local expertise in store setup, operations, marketing, and customer service.
6. Prepare Product Listings:
- Detailed product descriptions.
- High-quality images.
- Pricing information.
7. Plan Logistics:
You can use Tmall Global’s Cainiao logistic solutions or choose third-party logistics providers. Ensure they can handle storage, delivery, returns, and customs procedures efficiently.
8. Set Up Alipay:
All transactions on Tmall are processed through Alipay. Set up an Alipay business account to handle transactions and refunds.
9. Design Your Storefront:
It’s crucial to adapt your design to resonate with Chinese consumers. Consider cultural nuances and preferences. Your Tmall Partner can often assist in this process.
10. Launch and Marketing:
- Use Tmall’s advertising tools to promote your products.
- Consider participating in major shopping events like 11.11 (Singles’ Day).
- Collaborate with KOLs (Key Opinion Leaders) and influencers to boost brand visibility.
11. Post-Launch Management:
- Offer top-notch customer service to answer inquiries and resolve issues.
- Monitor sales, reviews, and feedback to adjust your strategy.
- Regularly update your product listings and promotions.
12. Stay Compliant:
Adhere to Tmall’s rules and guidelines, and be aware of changing regulations, especially for product categories that might have additional requirements.
Setting up and managing a store on Tmall as an overseas company can be challenging, but with the right guidance and strategies, it can provide a significant boost to your brand’s visibility and sales in the Chinese 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 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！
