(Source: https://pltfrm.com.cn)
Introduction
Douyin (China’s TikTok) now has 750 million daily active users and will generate over RMB 500 billion in e-commerce GMV in 2025. For overseas brands, Douyin has become the #1 launch channel — delivering brand awareness, store traffic, and direct sales faster than any other platform in China. This is the exact 2025 playbook top overseas brands are using.
1. Account Types & Setup Requirements for Overseas Brands
1.1 Douyin Global (Blue V) vs Local Entity Account** Blue V account allows overseas brands to open store in 7–14 days via licensed agency (no China entity needed). Local yellow V gives higher organic reach but requires ICP and trademark.
1.2 Trademark & Category Approval** All overseas brands must pre-file China trademark + pass category audit (cosmetics 30–60 days, food 60–90 days).
2. The 3 Traffic Engines You Must Activate on Day One
2.1 Information Flow Ads Start with RMB 5,000–10,000 daily budget — average CPC RMB 1.5–3.5.
2.2 Douyin Search Ads + Brand Hashtag** Occupy branded keyword + generic category keywords to capture high-intent traffic.
3. Content Strategy That Converts in 2025
3.1 The 1+10+100 Formula 1 hero video (Tier-1 KOL) + 10 waist KOL videos + 100 UGC/KOC videos in first 30 days = explosive algorithm boost.
3.2 Local Face + Mandarin Voiceover Rule Content using only overseas faces sees 75% lower completion rate.
4. Store Options: Douyin Small Store vs Flagship Store
4.1 Small Store (Recommended for Launch) Zero deposit for most categories, open in 3 days, perfect for testing.
4.2 Flagship Store Upgrade Path Upgrade once monthly GMV > RMB 5 million for higher trust and credibility.
Case Study: British Tea Brand Twinings
Launched exclusively via Douyin in March 2025:
- 28-day KOL marathon (180 creators)
- Daily 4-hour brand livestream window
- Small Store → Flagship Store upgrade in month 3 Result: RMB 180 million GMV in first 9 months, became No.1 imported tea brand on Douyin.
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!
