A Top-Down Approach On Chinese Consumer Behavior

1. Consumer Behaviour

Chinese people think differently from the people in the western world. In case you want to sell a food item or want to open a restaurant in China, do not try to sell a product that is sweet. You will not generate any sales. Remember: NORTH → Salty; SOUTH → SWEET/SPICY, EAST → SOUR, WEST → ROASTED/SPICY; MIDDLE OF CHINA → SPICY

Chinese people want a product that actually benefits them from the moment they buy it. 80–90% of all products advocate their specific advantages in the cover. Chinese people think pragramticly.

2. How To Sell A Product In China That Was Made in China

The only way you can sell Chinese people a product that was made in China, is to make them understand the product is Western. China has its own Amazon, called Taobao, even though Amazon gained some exposure in China in recent years. Taobao for example sells Nike shoes, offered by a Chinese reseller and it clearly states “Made in China”. Chinese people want to have the feeling they are buying from a company that is well known in the west and is trusted by many people in the West (because of course these people are always right). It starts by choosing the right username on the platform you sell. Do not try to fit in and use a Chinese Username. Take the “Western” alternative, and, believe me, you will generate more sales. Make the impression that you are American. Chinese people, young to old, believe “the West” is basically the United States. Look for clothing or other products that are popular in Chinese Media and Music. Analyze western stars that have exposure in China. The most popular ones are Taylor Swift and Justin Bieber.

And Chinese people want the clothes they wear, eat the food and live the lifestlye they associate with them, and for sure listen to the music they produce. Write all your blogs in Chinese (or get someone to help you to write them in Chinese) but keep your public image western. The same products you are selling will also be available in China, probably even cheaper. So, when you want to sell it for a higher price, make the impression that you buy the products in the West one by one for your customer.

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