(Source: https://pltfrm.com.cn)
Introduction
Online video is the most engaging and influential ad format in China today, driven by the dominance of platforms like Douyin, Kuaishou, and Bilibili. For overseas brands, investing in professional video ad production that aligns with local tastes and consumption behaviors is essential. From format length and storytelling tone to platform optimization and compliance, China’s video ad production ecosystem demands a strategic and culturally attuned approach. This article explores how global brands can partner with top-tier production teams in China to create video content that performs.
1. Align Video Concept With Platform-Specific Behaviors
Customize video formats for Douyin, RED, and Bilibili
Douyin favors vertical, short-form storytelling with strong hooks in the first 3 seconds. RED prioritizes calm, aesthetic visuals, while Bilibili embraces community-led, longer content with voiceover narratives.
Match tone and pacing to audience expectations
Humor, transformation, mini-vlogs, and skit formats work well on Douyin, while RED requires elegant, slower content with detailed captions or lifestyle cues.
2. Localize Scripts and Casting for Cultural Relevance
Use native Mandarin-speaking talent and authentic settings
Chinese consumers are highly sensitive to localization. Video ads should feature relatable actors, current slang, and local scenarios—whether in a dorm, subway, or café.
Adapt emotional tone to fit platform culture
Bilibili viewers may respond to sarcastic humor, while Douyin users engage more with upbeat, aspirational storytelling. These nuances are critical to production planning.
3. Integrate Commerce and CRM Elements Into Video Execution
Embed QR codes, Mini Program links, or CTA overlays
Videos should include clickable CTAs or scannable codes for seamless movement into conversion funnels. Many top production teams in China offer this functionality as part of post-production.
Plan retargeting sequences using Spark Ads and CRM tagging
Break the campaign into teaser, hero, and retargeting cuts—each designed to push viewers further down the funnel. Smart production anticipates media execution needs.
4. Partner With Production Studios Experienced in Platform Algorithms
Select teams with proven content performance on Chinese platforms
Leading video agencies in China not only produce but also optimize for Douyin’s and RED’s algorithms—handling thumbnail design, captions, soundtrack selection, and A/B testing of edits.
Ensure delivery formats meet ad platform specifications
Each platform has different requirements for resolution, file size, subtitle placement, and duration. Professional teams ensure technical compliance to avoid rejection or poor ranking.
Case Study: Canadian Skincare Brand Wins with Douyin Micro-Series
A Toronto-based skincare company collaborated with a Shanghai video agency to create a 5-episode micro-series for Douyin, highlighting routines for different skin types. Each video was 25 seconds long, featured popular actors from youth dramas, and included embedded QR codes linking to the brand’s Mini Program. The campaign generated 4.3 million views, 28,000 clicks, and a 19% opt-in rate for product trials within 10 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!
