How can Japanese products be sold online in China?
Hey everyone! Today, let's talk about a popular topic: how to sell Japanese products online in China? In fact, this question can be divided into two scenarios: general trade and cross-border imports. Don't worry, we'll go step by step.
What are "general trade" and "cross-border imports"?
General Trade: In simple terms, this involves first importing Japanese products into China through domestic companies and then selling them through domestic companies. This method requires that the products comply with Chinese regulatory standards, and the packaging must have Chinese labels. If the products are special items such as food, health products, medicines, or cosmetics, the import customs clearance process will be more complicated and time-consuming. The advantage is that once the products are cleared through customs, they can be sold freely like domestic products.
Cross-border Imports: This method involves directly selling products to Chinese consumers through cross-border e-commerce platforms like Tmall Global, JD Global, and Douyin Global Purchase. The packaging for this method does not require Chinese labels, and the customs clearance documentation is simpler. However, sales are limited to cross-border e-commerce platforms and cannot be as freely sold as in general trade.
Differences between General Trade and Cross-border Imports
General Trade: This is suitable for brands that want to develop long-term in the Chinese market. Products imported through general trade can be sold freely like domestic products, and the consumer experience is consistent with that of domestic products.
Cross-border Imports: This is suitable for new brands entering the Chinese market or smaller-scale brands. Selling through cross-border e-commerce platforms can bypass the complex customs clearance documents and is a shortcut to quickly enter the Chinese market.
How to sell on e-commerce platforms through general trade?
If you choose to import products through general trade and want to sell them on e-commerce platforms, you need a company registered in mainland China and a trademark (some platforms and categories can accept brands not registered in mainland China). The entry barriers and costs are similar to those for domestic companies and domestic brands, but you need to provide additional import proof documents such as customs declarations and purchase certificates. There are no special markings on the product display on the platform, and the consumer experience is consistent with that of domestic products.
How to sell on e-commerce platforms through cross-border trade?
If you choose cross-border trade, you need to join cross-border e-commerce platforms like Tmall Global, JD Global, and Douyin Global Purchase. You need to provide a company entity outside the mainland (companies from Hong Kong, Macau, and Taiwan are also acceptable) and a registered trademark. You can directly sell to end consumers through overseas direct mail or bonded warehouse shipping. This method bypasses the complex customs clearance documents and is a way for many overseas new brands and small and medium-sized brands to sell in China.
Summary
Whether through general trade or cross-border trade, selling Japanese products online in China requires certain qualifications and procedures. The choice depends on your brand positioning, market strategy, and resource situation. I hope this article helps you and wish your products great success in the Chinese market! If you have any questions, feel free to leave a comment and discuss!
