Startup Overseas Forums

Hi, Hope someone can help. I am looking for some advice on marketing in China. If anyone has any experince in this field or knows about it, I would like to know how it differs from the UK and USA. I've read it is not as effective or highly regarded. Is this true? Steph

The Chinese don't think too much of advertising, this is true. Almost all aspects of Chinese life are considered in terms of spirituality and the effect things have on the well being of the citizenship. Advertising is well-regulated by the government.
It is also important to know the meanings of symbols and numbers as they can be positively or negatively interpreted in Chinese culture.
Hope this helps
Thom

The best form of promotion in China is word-of-mouth, which unfortunately you can't really influence.

Like any market you have to gear your promotion in such a way that it meets the style that is popular in that country. China is no different in that respect.
However marketing methods in China are generally different than Western methods. A lot depends on your target market. and what you are trying to sell.
The emerging middle class who have a lot of disposable income will respond to a more western approach. Research shows that the style of advertising and marketing that works for the under 30's is unlikely to be successful with the over 50's
Chinese buyers respond to the history and philosophy of a company whereas in the west we respond more to the information on the products. With technical products Chinese readers often find difficulties in converting features into benefits.
Web design in China is very different from Western styles. However the emergence of the internet has brought many changes and whilst there is control over what can and cannot be seen on the internet and in many other maketing routes this should not be seen as a barrier to a good marketing proposition.
Like all marketing you should start with market research to find out about the demand for your product in China. You also need to work out routes to market and if you can offer your product throughout the whole country or start in particular areas. Don't always think Shanghai, Beijing or Guangzhou. These are wealthy cities with a lot ofg potential but there are many secondary cities in China where there is a huge potential for profitable business
Adrian