What is Douyin, the Chinese TikTok Equivalent?

November 18, 2025

Douyin is China’s leading short-video and social-commerce platform, developed by ByteDance. Known internationally as TikTok’s Chinese counterpart, Douyin combines entertainment, e-commerce, and community engagement within one ecosystem. This article explores what Douyin is, how it works, its business opportunities, and its growing influence across culture, fashion, and digital trends. It’s designed for professionals seeking a deep understanding of China’s short-video economy.

What Is Douyin? Definition, Origin, and Global Context

Douyin is a Chinese short-video app launched by ByteDance in 2016. Initially named A.me, it was rebranded as Douyin within months to appeal to the domestic audience. Its growth was exponential, reaching 100 million users in its first year and surpassing 750 million monthly active users and 400 million daily users by 2025.

Douyin is available only in mainland China and runs on a separate infrastructure from TikTok. TikTok serves global markets, while Douyin operates under Chinese data-protection and content-regulation frameworks. The platform’s ecosystem goes beyond entertainment: it’s a core driver of digital marketing, live commerce, and lifestyle culture in China.

Douyin vs. TikTok: Key Differences and Similarities

Although Douyin and TikTok share ByteDance’s parent company and a similar interface, they function as distinct platforms. Douyin complies with Chinese cybersecurity and censorship laws, storing data domestically and featuring additional functions not present in TikTok, such as in-video search, location-based recommendations, and integrated e-commerce tools.

TikTok, meanwhile, follows international privacy standards and features independent content algorithms. Accounts, likes, and posts cannot be transferred between the two apps. The split ensures localized user experiences and legal compliance in each market.

How Does Douyin Work? Core Features and User Experience

Douyin centers on short-form video creation and discovery. Users can film, edit, and publish directly within the app using an extensive toolkit — AR filters, background music, sound effects, and transitions. Its AI-driven recommendation feed analyzes user behavior to curate a highly personalized “For You” experience.

Community interaction happens through comments, duets, and hashtags, which amplify viral challenges and cultural memes. The platform also integrates live streaming and shopping functions that turn engagement into transactions.

Unique Features of Douyin in the Chinese Market

Douyin includes advanced features built for China’s digital ecosystem:

  • AI face search and visual recognition allow users to locate products seen in videos.
  • Booking services for hotels, restaurants, and travel are available directly inside the app.
  • Payment integration with Alipay and WeChat Pay enables seamless purchases.
  • Teenage mode introduces time limits and content filters to comply with youth-protection laws.

Together, these features make Douyin not just a content platform but a complete digital-lifestyle hub.

Business, Monetization, and Influencer Ecosystem on Douyin

Business Accounts

Brands operating in China can register verified business accounts using a Chinese business license. Verification unlocks analytics dashboards, ad-management tools, and the ability to launch official e-commerce stores.

Advertising Formats

Douyin offers multiple ad solutions, from native feed ads and hashtag challenges to brand takeovers and livestream promotions. Its performance-based metrics help marketers track impressions, engagement, and conversions directly within the app.

Influencer Marketing

KOLs (Key Opinion Leaders) and micro-influencers dominate Douyin’s ecosystem. Their authentic reviews, tutorials, and livestreams directly shape consumer decisions, especially in fashion, beauty, and food.

E-Commerce Integration

Users can buy products without leaving Douyin. Shopping carts, product pages, and affiliate links are embedded inside videos or livestreams. The platform supports one-click checkout and verified merchant stores.

Revenue Models for Influencers

Creators earn income through virtual gifts, brand partnerships, affiliate commissions, and live-shopping sales. High-performing KOLs can turn content engagement into measurable revenue streams, reinforcing Douyin’s role in China’s creator economy.

Cultural and Social Impact of Douyin in China

Douyin has reshaped how China’s youth communicate, consume, and define trends. It drives viral challenges, music hits, and internet slang, often influencing traditional media. The platform also empowers subcultures — from guofeng (国风) traditional aesthetics to cosplay and dialect humor — giving local communities visibility on a national scale.

Its influence extends to purchasing habits: viral products, travel destinations, and restaurant trends often originate on Douyin. By merging storytelling with commerce, it has become a blueprint for China’s digital-first consumer culture.

What Does Douyin Mean in Fashion and Digital Aesthetics?

Live Commerce and Real-Time Fashion Hauls

Douyin’s live-streaming ecosystem is transforming fashion retail. Influencers host real-time try-ons and styling sessions, with products purchasable during broadcasts. Data-driven insights and algorithmic recommendations push trending items to relevant audiences, turning spontaneous engagement into instant sales.

Douyin Makeup and Beauty Trends

“Douyin makeup” has become a defining aesthetic across Chinese social media — characterized by smooth skin, gradient lips, and expressive eyes. Tutorials and reviews from creators have propelled Chinese beauty brands to prominence, influencing makeup trends from Shanghai to Seoul and even Western platforms like TikTok and Instagram.

Privacy, Regulations, and Controversies Around Douyin

Douyin operates within China’s strict content and cybersecurity laws. The platform enforces real-name registration, content moderation, and data localization, ensuring compliance with national standards.

Teenage-protection measures limit daily screen time and restrict access to sensitive topics. However, these controls have also attracted criticism regarding censorship and limited creative expression. For international observers, Douyin represents the balance between innovation and regulation in China’s internet governance.

Frequently Asked Questions About Douyin

What does “Douyin” mean?

In Chinese, 抖音 (Dǒu yīn) translates to “shaking sound,” referring to rhythm and movement in short videos.

Is TikTok available in China?

No. TikTok is the international version of Douyin, operating outside mainland China.

Can you access Douyin outside China?

Yes, but the app’s features — especially e-commerce — are optimized for users in mainland China.

How does Douyin impact global fashion trends?

Its beauty and style aesthetics inspire viral trends worldwide and influence TikTok creators.

What are the main business opportunities on Douyin?

Brand storytelling, live commerce, influencer marketing, and in-app advertising.

What are the regulatory differences between Douyin and TikTok?

Douyin abides by China’s cybersecurity laws, while TikTok follows international compliance frameworks.

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Why RedNote Delivers High ROI for Foreign Brands in China

August 29, 2025

Introduction

In China’s fast-evolving digital landscape, authenticity has become the most valuable currency for brands. Among all platforms, RedNote (RED) has emerged as a leader in driving meaningful consumer engagement and high ROI for foreign brands.

Why RedNote Matters for Foreign Brands

With over 300 million monthly active users and 600 million daily searches, RedNote has transformed from a lifestyle diary into one of China’s most influential social commerce platforms. While Douyin and WeChat dominate brand marketing plans, RedNote’s conversion-driven ecosystem quietly delivers superior returns.

Impressive ROI and Cost Efficiency

  • Lower CPM: At ¥10–30 ($1.40–4.20), RedNote’s cost per thousand impressions is just 10–20% of Douyin’s.
  • Higher Conversion Rates: Average conversion sits at 21.4%, compared to 6–8% on rival platforms.
  • Longer Content Lifecycle: Content stays relevant for 3–6 months, versus Douyin’s 1–3 days.
  • Affordable KOL Partnerships: Collaborations cost 30–50% less than similar-scale partnerships elsewhere.

Brands that stay consistent often see ROI triple or quadruple within three months.

The Right Audience for Foreign Brands

RedNote’s users align perfectly with foreign brand target demographics:

  • 39.7% high-value consumers—the highest among China’s social platforms
  • Average household income: ¥300K+ ($42K)
  • 85% aged 18–35 and 70% female
  • Over 50% live in Tier 1–2 cities
  • 70% of users search products daily
  • 90% say RedNote content directly influences purchases

Winning on RedNote: Strategies That Work

To succeed, brands must prioritize authenticity and local relevance:

  1. Educational Content: Explain product benefits clearly to build trust
  2. Lifestyle Integration: Blend your products seamlessly into real-life scenarios
  3. KOC & Micro-Influencers: Drive organic engagement with relatable voices
  4. Localized Marketing: Go beyond translation; adapt messaging to cultural context

Budgeting Smartly for RedNote Success

Successful brands follow this proven allocation framework:

  • 40%: Content creation
  • 30%: KOL & KOC partnerships
  • 30%: Paid amplification

Tip: RedNote rewards consistent engagement, so focus on community building, not one-off campaigns.

Final Thoughts

For foreign brands aiming to reach China’s affluent, digitally-savvy consumers, RedNote delivers better ROI, stronger trust, and deeper engagement than many competitors. However, success requires long-term planning, localized strategies, and authentic storytelling.

Ready to Succeed on RedNote?

Want to unlock RedNote’s potential for your brand? Our team specializes in end-to-end RedNote strategies—from content creation and KOL partnerships to paid amplification and community building. Contact us today to craft a campaign that converts.

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The Rise of Soft-Selling Livestreams on RedNote

August 15, 2025

Introduction

In China’s fast-paced livestream commerce world, the days of loud, hard-sell broadcasts may be numbered. A new wave of soft-selling livestreams is emerging on RedNote, led by Gen Z and Post-00s creators who are reshaping how products are showcased. Instead of shouting “buy now” slogans, these influencers focus on authenticity, transparency, and real conversations with their audience — and it’s paying off.

What Is Soft-Selling in Livestreaming?

Soft-selling livestreaming replaces high-pressure tactics with honest product discussions, personal insights, and two-way engagement. Influencers highlight both pros and cons, share personal experiences, and often discourage impulse buying — which paradoxically increases audience trust and drives sales.

A standout example is Lydiaaa, a former Peking University scholar, whose livestreams combine product demonstrations with scientific testing and candid reviews. In one 13-hour session, she told viewers not to rush into purchases, repeating the caution dozens of times. The result? Over ¥22 million ($3 million) in sales.

Why It Works on RedNote

RedNote’s algorithm favors content that drives genuine engagement and builds trust. Unlike platforms where aggressive discounting is the main driver, RedNote surfaces high-quality, storytelling-driven content to new audiences through its recommendation engine.

Key factors behind the trend’s success:

  • Trust as Currency: Transparency earns long-term loyalty.

  • Content Over Followers: High-quality storytelling reaches beyond existing followers.

  • Cultural Relevance: Gen Z streamers understand the language, humor, and aesthetic that resonate with their peers.

Impact on Brands

For brands targeting younger Chinese consumers, soft-selling livestreams on RedNote offer both a sales channel and a brand-building opportunity:

  • Lower Entry Barriers: Many soft-selling hosts charge less than mega-streamers.

  • New Audience Reach: Up to 70% of buyers may be first-time viewers.

  • Brand Affinity: The format builds an emotional connection that lasts beyond a single purchase.

How Brands Can Leverage Soft-Selling Livestreams

  1. Partner with the Right Hosts – Look for influencers with engaged communities, even if follower counts are modest.

  2. Allow Creative Freedom – Avoid over-scripted talking points; authenticity is key.

  3. Integrate Storytelling – Tie your product into relatable, everyday scenarios.

  4. Think Long-Term – Consistency matters more than a one-off sales push.

The Takeaway

Soft-selling livestreaming on RedNote isn’t just a passing fad — it’s a sign of where China’s e-commerce is headed. In an era when consumer trust is harder to earn, the brands that embrace authenticity and human-centered storytelling will have the edge.

Want to explore how soft-selling livestreams on RedNote can work for your brand? Our team specializes in creating authentic, high-impact campaigns that resonate with Chinese consumers and drive long-term results. Contact us today to discuss your goals and discover how we can help your brand build trust, engage audiences, and boost sales in China.

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RED Alert: How Brands Can Win On RedNote in Southeast Asia

July 25, 2025

As Xiaohongshu (also known as RED or RedNote) rides a global wave of attention, savvy marketers in Southeast Asia are beginning to take notice—especially in Malaysia and Singapore, where Chinese-speaking communities and Gen Z digital behavior have laid fertile ground for RED’s rise.

The 2025 migration of TikTok users—dubbed “TikTok refugees”—has fueled fresh interest in the platform, helping RED gain traction across international markets. But in Malaysia and Singapore specifically, this interest is translating into 4.3 million users and growing daily.

So, what’s driving Xiaohongshu’s success in the region—and how can brands seize this opportunity?

Why RED Is Gaining Traction in Southeast Asia

Unlike other social platforms where aesthetics and advertising dominate, RED has carved a niche with authentic, UGC-driven long-form content. Its recommendation engine favors user-generated reviews, everyday tips, and real-life experiences over polished brand pushes—making it feel more like a trusted community than a billboard.

What sets RED apart:

  • UGC algorithm that prioritizes authenticity
  • Interest-based communities for like-minded users
  • Less polished, “real” content that resonates with young urban audiences

In both Malaysia and Singapore, this approach aligns well with user preferences for credibility, relatability, and peer-driven inspiration.

Who’s Using RED in Malaysia and Singapore?

📍 Malaysia

  • User Growth: 4% YoY
  • Demographics: 63% aged 16–34, predominantly Chinese and single
  • Traits: Brand lovers, fame followers, private networkers
  • Behavior: Follow trends, stay anonymous, seek genuine product insights

📍 Singapore

  • User Growth: 13% YoY
  • Demographics: 42% aged 16–34, 36% aged 35–54; majority Chinese with growing Malay users
  • Traits: Affluent shoppers, community participants, brand enthusiasts
  • Behavior: Value exclusivity, seek peer recommendations, lean into lifestyle

Despite being smaller than platforms like Instagram or TikTok, RED boasts high “daily stickiness”—meaning users return frequently, stay longer, and engage deeper.

Top Categories Thriving on RED

If your brand plays in any of the following categories, you should already be testing on RED:

High-performing categories:

  • Beauty & personal care
  • Fashion
  • Travel & tech

Surprisingly strong categories:

  • Indulgence items: Snacks, ice cream, alcohol
  • Experiential offers: Spa packages, concert tickets, weekend getaways

These segments see outsized engagement on RED thanks to its word-of-mouth ecosystem, where users don’t just browse—they search, share, and buy.

Why Some Brands Still Hesitate

Despite its growing popularity, some brands remain hesitant about RED. Two main challenges arise:

1. Language barrier

The app is still heavily Chinese-dominated, which may alienate non-Chinese speakers, especially in Malaysia.

2. Smaller user base

While RED has 4.3M users in Malaysia and Singapore, it’s still modest compared to larger platforms.

However, with double-digit daily stickiness and deeply engaged niche communities, RED may offer better ROI per user—especially for categories that benefit from peer-driven recommendations.

How Brands Can Win on RED: The 5C Framework

To help brands approach RED with the right mindset, here’s a 5C framework tailored for Southeast Asia:

1. Channel Fit

Is RED the right platform to achieve your goals? RED works best for community-led discovery and product consideration, not mass awareness.

2. Credibility First

RED thrives on peer-to-peer validation. Partner with KOCs (Key Opinion Consumers) instead of high-profile influencers. Their relatable content earns more trust.

3. Content Realness

Avoid polished, overly branded visuals. Go for raw, everyday content that feels natural. Think product reviews, behind-the-scenes, and day-in-the-life storytelling.

4. Community Engagement

Create or join niche communities. Use hashtags, UGC contests, and local incentives to fuel participation and build brand tribes.

5. Commerce Integration

Link content to your brand store or landing pages. RED users are highly conversion-driven and expect direct access to purchase options.

Best Practices for Getting Started

Here’s how to integrate RED into your broader social media strategy:

1. Audit your audience-fit

Is your target audience already searching for your category on RED?

2. Localize the content

Test campaigns specifically for Chinese-speaking segments or Malays in Singapore, where user bases are growing.

3. Build a RED-specific strategy

Don’t just cross-post. Develop unique campaigns with tailored UGC, hashtags, and influencer partnerships.

4. Focus on organic first

RED isn’t a place for hard-selling. Earn trust through authentic storytelling and then guide users to purchase.

5. Drive to brand space

Ensure your RED content links to your brand page or store to capture interest and complete the journey.

Final Thoughts

Xiaohongshu’s growth in Malaysia and Singapore is a signal that consumer discovery behavior is changing. As trust, community, and authenticity become key drivers of influence, RED offers a powerful complement to your mainstream platforms.

With 4.3 million engaged users and growing stickiness, RED isn’t just a trend—it’s a rising social commerce channel that can give early movers a lasting competitive edge.

Looking to build your RED strategy for Southeast Asia? Our team can help with KOC outreach, community content, and localized campaigns tailored to RED’s ecosystem. Let’s talk.

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From AI to O2O: 7 Key Media Trends in China

June 27, 2025

As the digital media ecosystem in China continues to evolve at an unprecedented pace, understanding emerging trends is crucial for brands looking to thrive in this competitive market. Starcom, the media arm of Publicis Groupe, recently released its latest report, “Increased Integration and Depth in China Media Market”, identifying seven pivotal trends that are redefining consumer behavior, content distribution, and brand strategy across platforms. Here’s a breakdown of the most important insights and how brands can prepare.

 

1. Cross-Platform Integration: Breaking the Walls Down

China’s once siloed internet ecosystem is transforming into a landscape of collaboration. In 2025, we’re witnessing platforms like Tencent and Alibaba opening up to one another: Tencent Games content appears on Douyin, Taobao accepts WeChat Pay, and JD.com integrates Alipay.

For brands, this “horizontal integration” means smoother customer journeys and opportunities to execute truly omnichannel strategies. Cross-platform compatibility also improves user experience, leading to better engagement and conversion rates.

 

2. AI-Powered Search and Intelligent Interactions

Search is no longer just about users looking for information. With generative AI entering the scene, proactive content delivery and conversational search are reshaping digital marketing. The search engine market in China is expected to surpass RMB 300 billion by 2029, with mobile-based search playing a major role.

Brands must rethink their search marketing by aligning keywords, content, and SEO strategy with evolving AI-driven behaviors across Baidu, Douyin, Xiaohongshu, and other platforms.

 

3. Online and Offline Synergy: The New O2O Loop

Marketers are rediscovering the power of offline media, especially when amplified by digital interactivity. In 2025, 28.3% of advertisers are increasing their offline ad spend. Campaigns like Xiaohongshu’s user-generated content (UGC) billboards and McDonald’s programmatic subway ads show how to turn physical placements into interactive, trackable experiences.

Successful brands are integrating data capture tools, experience design, and social buzz triggers into their O2O campaigns to drive conversion.

4. Social-Powered Closed-Loop Commerce

Social media platforms are becoming e-commerce ecosystems. Xiaohongshu leads the way with interest-based group chats, offering exclusive promotions, live previews, and direct links to virtual stores. The results are impressive: 2.5x higher repurchase rates and 300x better conversion rates in private domains.

Brands must build community-focused strategies and activate users through content that fuels interaction and loyalty.

 

5. Value-Driven E-Commerce Over Price Wars

As consumer preferences shift from discounts to experience, platforms like Taobao and JD.com are focusing on enhancing logistics, customer service, and product quality. Features like Taobao’s hourly purchase service and JD.com’s “24-hour delivery in counties and towns” reflect this evolution.

To remain competitive, brands should deliver value through exclusive products, flexible services, and premium experiences instead of relying solely on low prices.

 

6. Diverse Content Channels: From Podcasts to Micro-Dramas

China’s content landscape is rapidly diversifying. Podcasts now reach over 220 million users, with 71.6% influenced to make purchases. Meanwhile, micro-drama users account for more than half of the internet population, with the market expected to grow 35% year-on-year to reach RMB 50.44 billion.

Brands need to leverage these formats to tell compelling stories, connect with niche audiences, and reinforce product relevance in immersive, culturally attuned ways.

7. AI’s Expanding Role Across the Funnel

AI is no longer a backend tool; it’s front and center. From predictive CRM and personalized content generation to dynamic bidding and campaign automation, AI is transforming the entire marketing stack. China is also exploring frontier technologies like brain-computer interface advertising.

Brands must embrace AI to improve media planning, content production, customer segmentation, and real-time campaign optimization.

 

Conclusion: Be Adaptive, Be Integrated, Be Smart

In today’s media landscape, success is no longer about mastering one channel or trend. It’s about understanding how technology, platforms, and content work together to shape consumer expectations.

By staying ahead of these seven trends, brands can craft adaptive, AI-enhanced, and experience-driven strategies that resonate in the ever-shifting Chinese digital ecosystem.

Need help navigating China’s evolving media landscape? Contact our team to explore how we can localize your strategy, enhance your platform presence, and drive smarter, performance-driven campaigns tailored to the China market.

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AI Tools, Smarter Discounts & Winning Plays: 618 Strategies for Beauty Brands

June 13, 2025

The 2025 618 Shopping Festival has revealed not just the strength of China’s e-commerce, but a strategic shift powered by AI, refined platform tactics, and tighter content-commerce integration—especially for the beauty sector.

AI Takes Center Stage

AI quietly became the engine of this year’s festival. Platforms like Taobao and Tmall deployed advanced tools such as Quanzhantui, which assisted 1.4 million merchants in campaign performance optimization. Their new “Image-to-Video” feature alone generated over 1.5 million videos in the run-up to 618, allowing beauty brands to scale production with unmatched speed and consistency.

In May, over 100 million pieces of AI-generated content were created by Alibaba platforms, helping brands reduce costs and maintain high engagement velocity.

Rule Changes and Real Impact

This year, Taobao and Tmall simplified their promotional mechanisms by eliminating complicated cross-store discounting. Instead, a universal 15% discount and category-specific vouchers created greater transparency and increased conversion rates.

The simplified pricing approach also helped:

  • Increase basket size
  • Lower cart abandonment
  • Improve campaign forecasting and marketing ROI

Still, users could stack up to 4+ coupons, leading to ongoing complexity and risks of exploitation via returns.

Return of International Beauty Brands

International giants reclaimed dominance during 618:

  • L’Oréal, Estée Lauder, Lancôme, and SkinCeuticals surpassed 100M RMB in sales within 30 minutes.
  • Local brand Proya was the only domestic contender in the same range.

Why? Cleaner inventories, global price-matching, exclusive discounts, and better member engagement strategies re-energized consumer trust.

Platform Differentiation Defines Strategy

Each platform reinforced its unique edge:

  • Tmall/Taobao remain brand-building powerhouses (45.1% market share, +8.5% YoY growth).
  • JD.com leaned into sustainable luxury with its “Green Impact Initiative.”
  • Douyin capitalized on algorithmic DTC performance.
  • Xiaohongshu (RedNote) emerged as the go-to discovery engine for functional skincare.

Content-Commerce Convergence

Cross-platform integrations like Tmall × Xiaohongshu’s “Red Cat Plan” created seamless discovery-to-checkout flows. Brands embedding Tmall links into RED posts saw a 27% lift in click-through-to-conversion.

Livestreaming’s Evolving Role

While year-round livestreaming is now common, 618 remains a high-intensity branding moment. Brands leverage the event for:

  • Launching new SKUs
  • Testing pricing elasticity
  • Generating strategic insights ahead of Double 11

Premium brands are more cautious with discounts, using livestreams strategically rather than constantly.

What This Means for Beauty Brands

618 is no longer just a discount-driven spike—it’s a mid-year strategy checkpoint. Success now depends on a refined mix of:

  • AI-powered content production
  • Platform-specific strategies
  • Transparent promotions
  • Commerce embedded in community

Want to future-proof your brand’s 618 strategy or improve your China e-commerce game with AI and integrated platform tactics? Contact us today to craft a data-backed, conversion-focused strategy tailored to your needs.

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9 Proven Strategies for Foreign Brands to Succeed on RedNote

May 16, 2025

RedNote (Xiaohongshu) has become a crucial platform for lifestyle-focused social commerce in China. With a strong base of Gen Z and millennial users, RedNote offers foreign brands a powerful entry point—if content is executed well.

Examples of Galeries Lafayette’s official RedNote (Xiaohongshu) account content, including branded posts, influencer videos, product promotions, and CNY marketing campaigns

Here are 9 proven strategies that help brands stand out, gain traction, and convert consumers on RedNote.

1. Choosing the Right Visual Elements

High-quality visuals are essential to gain attention on RedNote, especially on a platform rooted in shopping discovery. Authentic product photos—especially those that look like they’re taken by users—outperform overly commercial images.

Your cover image heavily influences click-through rates, and user-generated-style visuals tend to generate better engagement and higher conversions.

2. Localize Your Content

Translation alone won’t help your brand stand out. With over 56% of brands on RedNote being local, cultural alignment is key.

Foreign brands need to adapt messaging and visuals to Chinese tastes, participate in local events, and ensure language is in simplified Chinese with relevant slang and expressions. Professional translation is highly recommended over free tools.

3. Implement a Solid Influencer Marketing Strategy

Influencers remain central to social commerce in China. However, the shift is moving toward KOCs (Key Opinion Consumers) and Micro-KOLs, who offer more authentic and relatable content.

Use platforms like:

  • Pugongying – RedNote’s official KOL marketplace
  • Qiangua – A third-party tool offering in-depth analytics and price estimates

These tools help identify the right influencer partnerships based on engagement, niche, and audience fit.

4. Launch a Brand Promotion Through Ads

While organic content drives trust, paid content helps reach niche audiences. RedNote offers formats such as:

  • Paid KOL collaborations
  • In-feed/native ads
  • Search ads (placing your brand in top search results for relevant keywords)

Combining organic and paid tactics is essential for visibility and conversion.

5. Optimize for RedNote’s Social Search Function

RedNote users now skip traditional search engines and look directly within the app for product recommendations.

To appear in these results, your content must be keyword-optimized—using trending search terms in titles, captions, and hashtags. Conduct research on term popularity and search volume within your niche.

6. Long vs. Short Content

Brand accounts generally perform better with longer, keyword-rich content (about 500 characters), while individual influencers might gain engagement with just emojis.

Use a blend of rich descriptions and emojis for better readability and stronger reach through RedNote’s search algorithm.

7. Generate Traffic Through Lucky Draws

RedNote offers a built-in feature for lucky draws, where users follow, like, or bookmark to enter.

These campaigns attract initial attention—even from freebie seekers—but can go viral and lead to brand discovery by more qualified leads. Sephora is one success case, generating 1,000+ engagements with a lucky draw.

8. Utilize RedNote’s Live-streaming Features

Live commerce is rising fast on RedNote. Though platforms like Taobao and Douyin lead the category, RedNote is gaining momentum, particularly in beauty, food, and maternal product categories.

During the Spring Festival, the platform hit 198M RMB in sales via livestreams, with users valuing both interactivity and authenticity in real-time product showcases.

9. Participate in E-Commerce Shopping Festivals

Leverage China’s e-commerce calendar—especially events like:

  • Lunar New Year
  • National Day
  • Women’s Day (key on RedNote due to its largely female base)
  • RED Friday – RedNote’s version of Black Friday, from late November through early December

Participation in these events can significantly boost visibility and sales when paired with strategic promotions.

Final Takeaway

RedNote is more than a content-sharing platform—it’s a full social commerce ecosystem. For foreign brands, understanding and leveraging these 9 strategies is critical to building relevance and success in China’s competitive digital space.

Want to localize your RedNote strategy with confidence? Contact us today to build a plan that drives content, community, and commerce.

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RedNote Surges to No. 1 on U.S. App Store Amid TikTok Ban Concerns

January 16, 2025

As TikTok faces potential shutdown in the U.S. on January 19 due to ownership concerns, many “TikTok refugees” are seeking alternative platforms, and a new Chinese app is making waves in the American market. Xiaohongshu, known as RedNote in English, has skyrocketed to the No. 1 spot for free apps on the U.S. App Store, also claiming the top position in the Social Networking category for iPhone apps. This surge reflects a growing interest in the platform, as TikTok creators encourage their followers to explore alternatives in the wake of uncertainty.

RedNote has become the top downloaded app in the U.S

Why Is Xiaohongshu Gaining Momentum?

Xiaohongshu, originally launched in 2013, has evolved into a robust platform that resonates with creators and users alike. Often referred to as China’s answer to Instagram, the app combines the aesthetics of Pinterest with social shopping features, making it a compelling alternative for those seeking a new digital home.

Here are some key factors driving Xiaohongshu’s rise:

  • A Creator-Friendly Layout: With a design reminiscent of Pinterest, Xiaohongshu offers creators an intuitive and visually appealing interface to share content.
  • Social Shopping Features: The platform integrates e-commerce capabilities, allowing users to discover and shop products directly, enhancing the creator monetization potential.
  • Viral Growth: During the COVID-19 pandemic, Xiaohongshu’s popularity surged among younger Chinese users. Today, it boasts 300 million monthly active users, with 79% of them being women.

Xiaohongshu by the Numbers

  • User Base: 300 million monthly active users.
  • Funding: The app has raised $917 million in venture funding from major investors like Tencent, Alibaba, ZhenFund, and DST.
  • Valuation: Reportedly valued at $17 billion following a 2024 secondary share sale.
  • Projected Profits: Expected to exceed $1 billion in 2024, signaling its robust growth trajectory.

RedNote Shanghai Office

Opportunities for Creators

Xiaohongshu’s growth presents exciting opportunities for creators:

  • Content Diversification: The app’s unique mix of social networking and shopping enables creators to explore new types of content and revenue streams.
  • Early Adoption Advantage: With its growing popularity in the U.S., early adopters can carve out a niche before the market becomes saturated.
  • Supportive Ecosystem: Backed by substantial funding and a focus on e-commerce, Xiaohongshu is positioned to provide tools and features that empower creators to thrive.

Challenges and Considerations

While Xiaohongshu’s rise is notable, its long-term sustainability in the U.S. remains uncertain:

  • Regulatory Scrutiny: As a Chinese app operating in the U.S., Xiaohongshu could face increased scrutiny from authorities.
  • Competition: The app will need to differentiate itself further from established platforms like Instagram and Pinterest.
  • Cultural Adaptation: To succeed in the U.S., Xiaohongshu must adapt its offerings to align with local user preferences and behaviors.

What’s Next for Xiaohongshu?

With its viral momentum and robust features, Xiaohongshu has the potential to disrupt the U.S. social networking landscape. However, its future will depend on how well it navigates regulatory challenges and adapts to the preferences of an American audience.

If you’re interested in leveraging Xiaohongshu for your brand’s growth, contact us today to explore tailored strategies that align with your goals!

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Discovering Opportunities: Exploring China’s Recent Updates

May 20, 2024

1. Shanghai takes the lead as Chinese coffee consumption averages 16 cups per year

  • China’s coffee industry amassed a staggering 265.4 billion RMB (approx. 36.66 billion USD) in scale last year, with an average per capita annual consumption of 16.74 cups
  • Coffee Carnival is running in Shanghai between 30 April to 4 May, alongside over 50 esteemed local coffee shops.
  • Additionally, takeaway, payment, and social media platforms initiated the “Drinking in the City” campaign in Shanghai, poised to invest nearly 100 million RMB (approx. 13.8 million USD) into the consumer market.
  • With a net increase of 118 shops, marking a 14% year-on-year rise, the total count of Starbucks outlets soared to 7,093.

LINK:https://daoinsights.com/news/shanghai-takes-the-lead-as-chinese-coffee-consumption-averages-16-cups-per-year/

2.What’s driving China’s unstoppable second hand luxury market?

  • China’s secondhand luxury market is tipped to grow to $30 billion (217 billion RMB) in 2025 from $8 billion (58 billion RMB) in 2020, with Gen Z and millennials (under 40) together accounting for more than 80 percent of the total number of secondhand luxury consumers
  • From a luxury brand point of view, perceived value on the secondhand market can have direct repercussions on reputation and desirability in the eyes of consumers.
  • Brands should not see the secondhand market as an adverse phenomenon, but encourage customers to trade in or resell their pre-owned items through authorized channels, ensuring that the brand retains control over the quality and authenticity of the products in the secondary market.
  • Luxury brands must monitor and manage their perceived value in the secondhand market, as it can impact their reputation and desirability among consumers. Digital marketing efforts should focus on maintaining brand authenticity and highlighting the enduring quality and heritage of their products.

LINK:https://jingdaily.com/posts/what-s-driving-china-s-unstoppable-secondhand-luxury-market#8548723daa5e

3. Decoding China’s $170 billion ‘romance economy’

  • China commemorates love on three separate holidays: the Western Valentine’s Day on February 14, the uniquely Chinese 520 Day on May 20, a celebration derived from internet slang where the numbers “520” phonetically resemble the words for “I love you” in Mandarin, and the traditional Qixi Festival, which usually falls in August.
  • China’s Gen Z consumers are a key element of the “romance economy,” responsible for 54% of related orders according to the “Romantic Economic Big Data Report” released in 2022.
  • Survey data from iiMedia Research in 2023 revealed that regardless of their relationship status – single, in a relationship, or married – over 90% of participants were eager to celebrate romantic festivals by presenting gifts to family and friends.
  • Notably, jewellery ranks as the number top gift category for coupled-up individuals on China’s romantic days.
  • Traditional gifts like flowers, personal care items, and beauty products remain favorites and “gift boxes” persist as a preference for consumers on seasonal occasions.
  • “Love-brain” (恋爱脑) has recently emerged as a trending term online. It centers on the idea that individuals often lose their emotional or financial rationality when in love. This phenomenon prompted the creation of the phrase “scolding to cure love brain” (骂醒恋爱脑) as a response. And in turn, this has sparked a new type of service.

LINK: https://jingdaily.com/posts/decoding-s-china-s-usd170-billion-romance-economy

4. Xiaohongshu: Unlock new opportunities in Chinese beauty market

Customers are getting more connected to Chinese culture and caring about value, which makes domestic beauty brands more popular. Younger consumers are stepping up as key players in the domestic beauty market.

  • Emergence of quality Chinese cosmetics: Domestic beauty annual sales surged around 10%, outperforming foreign cosmetics with a commanding market share of 50%.
  • Co-create content with the brands: Hundreds of celebrities and top KOLs embarked on the offline and online collaboration with a lot of brands.
  • Create a personalized IP Matrix: Xiaohongshu collaborated with more influential media like CCTV network and created more personalized IP/topics for brands.

LINK: https://mp.weixin.qq.com/s/4oAwT-Q0mtbWHGQtRYSPLg

5.ByteDance surprises AI rivals with ultra-low cost Doubao model:

  • ByteDance has surprised the artificial intelligence industry with the ultra-low cost of its Doubao model
  • The company said it is capable of processing 2 million Chinese characters, equivalent to 1.25 million tokens, for RMB 1 ($0.14).
  • OpenAI’s most advanced multimodal model, GPT-4o, also unveiled this week, comes in at $5 per million input tokens handled.

LINK:https://technode.com/2024/05/16/bytedance-surprises-ai-rivals-with-ultra-low-cost-doubao-model/

6. Which fashion campaigns for China’s 520 Day hit the mark?

  • Luxury fashion campaigns for China’s 520 Day focus on limited edition collections, celebrity endorsements, and creative storytelling, often in the form of mini videos.
  • Brands like Gucci and Saint Laurent tapped into Gen Z’s preferences by incorporating traditional Chinese elements and leveraging digital platforms for greater engagement.
  • 520 Day’s fusion of traditional Chinese culture with commercialism highlights the evolving landscape of celebrations and consumer behavior, emphasizing the importance of cultural resonance and meaningful experiences in luxury marketing strategies for brands looking to better connect with consumers.
  • These strategies aimed to blend cultural significance with contemporary marketing, enhance brand appeal and foster emotional connections with consumers.

LINK: https://jingdaily.com/posts/which-fashion-campaigns-for-china-s-520-day-hit-the-mark

7. 2024 May Day Holiday: The rise of small cities tourism and AI companions

  • Amid an economy yet to fully recover to pre-pandemic levels, this year’s May Day break underscores a notable trend towards tourism in lesser-known destinations.
  • On social media platforms like Xiaohongshu (RED), many young people are keen to explore counties and even aim to ‘visit Top 100 Counties of China’ as a novel approach to May Day travel.
  • Hong Kong has shifted its focus to cultural and artistic events, as well as large-scale concerts.
  • It is also worth mentioning Japan. With the Yen reaching a 34-year low against the US dollar during the holiday period, this made it more attractive for overseas tourists.
  • ‘AI companion’ emerged as a new trend in travel. This involves using AI technology to offer personalised travel assistance services, crafting tailored itineraries and services.

LINK:https://daoinsights.com/opinions/2024-may-day-holiday-the-rise-of-small-cities-tourism-and-ai-companions/

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Ignite Your B2B Brand in China with the Power of Live-streaming

July 19, 2023

Welcome to the captivating world of live streaming in China, where businesses are transformed, lives are changed, and B2B can join in on the fun. Live-stream can sound like a daunting and stressful task for more traditional industries, but it doesn’t have to.

In this article, we will explore the incredible impact of live streaming for businesses and individuals alike. From revolutionizing B2B brands to boosting foreign trade, we’ll delve into the exciting realm of live streaming platforms and their role in shaping the Chinese market. So, get ready to embark on a thrilling journey that combines entertainment, education, and limitless opportunities.

 

Live Streaming: A Modern Twist to TV Shopping

Globally, live-streaming has breathed new life into TV Shopping, offering a contemporary twist that captivates audiences worldwide. It generated sales of $480 billion in China last year that are likely to jump 30% this year. 

B2B brands, usually considered to be on a more conservative side, are leveraging this dynamic medium to expand their reach and engage with customers on a whole new level both in China and beyond. In a survey conducted among Chinese B2B brands, 56% said that they plan to increase the budget for live-streaming video in the coming months.   

By harnessing the power of live streaming, businesses can showcase their products and services in an interactive and immersive way, leaving a lasting impact on viewers.

Live Streaming Channels

🤳 Check out our Introduction to WeChat Channels Live-Streaming

Boosting Foreign Trade through Live Streaming

Chinese manufacturers have discovered the immense potential of live streaming platforms in boosting foreign trade. Platforms like Alibaba.com, a leading global wholesale trade platform, have witnessed steady growth in cross-border business-to-business (B2B) trade through live streaming. 

In fact, during a recent trade event organized by Alibaba over 60,000 Chinese businessmen used cross-border live streaming to promote their products, attracting more than 700,000 foreign buyers. Viewers can witness the production process, product testing, and interact with hosts who speak multiple languages, including English, German, French, Spanish, Portuguese, Italian, and Arabic. 

This seamless communication and access to international markets eliminate constraints of time and location, fostering a truly global business environment. This trend has significantly contributed to the rebound in China’s foreign trade.

Can Western brands leverage live-streaming and reach their potential customers and partners based in China?

💼 10 Ways for a B2B Brand to Generate Leads on WeChat

Breaking Barriers for B2B Brands: Virtual Tours and Multilingual Experiences

Travel restrictions during COVID-19 seriously impacted the possibility of face-to-face meetings, trade show participation and factory meetings not only among overseas brands but also internally. That’s why Chinese companies acted fast and quickly adapted to obstacles. Virtual tours, industry conferences in metaverse, live-streaming shows and webinars quickly entered Chinese digital space and are here to stay. 

Since China’s reopening earlier this year, visitors can come freely to China. Nevertheless, new tools developed helped to break down geographical barriers and enabled brands to start and continue conversations online at their fingertips.

 

Live-streaming: What To Stream and How?

B2B brands can captivate their audiences through engaging live-streams on a myriad of topics. Whether it’s industry insights, product demonstrations, or thought-provoking discussions, live-stream events can offer a dynamic platform to connect, educate, and foster meaningful connections with clients and partners.

Themes:

  • New products and explanations of new features and functionalities
  • Frequently asked questions
  • Case studies
  • Tutorials
  • Behind the scenes: virtual tours, production process
  • Interviews
  • Trade shows

Because the Chinese digital ecosystem is vastly different from the global one, user behavior also varies considerably. However in this case it will work in your favor. 

Why WeChat Channels?

In China, users often don’t need to switch between different platforms and apps. Therefore if they already follow you on WeChat, you can send them a notification that a live-stream will take place and remind them just before it starts. It’s very convenient and helps to maximize effort. 

B2B Live Stream WeChat Santoni

Since most B2B brands build their brand hub on WeChat it’s the best choice to start live-streaming there as well (click here to learn more about WeChat for B2B sector). Thanks to the multitude of functionalities like live comments, customer service connection, and more, brands can bring their communication to the next level and truly get in a conversation with their followers.  On WeChat live-streams can be saved and watched later by your followers and newcomers. Recently our Head of Strategy, Miriam Dabrowa, shared her insights on how luxury brands can leverage WeChat Channels for live-streaming with JingDaily, you can read the full article here: A Luxury Brand Guide To Using WeChat Channels. Although, the article is dedicated to luxury brands, B2B brands can also learn and apply the key takeaways.

B2B Live Stream WeChat Santoni

⚠️Live-streaming from trade shows outside of China require applying to Tencent beforehand. You can contact us to support you on this.

🎥 See how you can get started on WeChat Channels – Guide for Beginners

The Fun Side of Live Streaming: Engaging and Entertaining

Live Streaming isn’t just about serious business—it’s also a realm of entertainment and engagement. This kind of content can seriously increase your credibility with authentic live content. Of course, professionalism should always be a priority but audiences look for valuable and interesting content first. 

The rise of live streaming in China has revolutionized the way businesses approach marketing and engagement. It has become a driving force in boosting foreign trade and facilitating cross-border business transactions.

Live Streaming not only breaks down barriers but also provides an entertaining and immersive experience for viewers. English-speaking WeChat users can now dive into this exciting world, where education, entertainment, and endless opportunities converge.

So, embrace the power of live streaming and unlock a new realm of business growth and engagement. Don’t miss out on this incredible journey that awaits you in the captivating world of live streaming in China. Also, don’t forget to check out article on Top 5 alternatives for LinkedIn in China you need to know now. For additional information, please contact at contact@thewechatagency.com.

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