For the last decade, it seems like we have been fighting this economic “war” with China. Manufacturing in North America was drying up and moving to places with cheaper labor and materials, such as Asia.
The “made in China” label has a lot of stigma attached to it, as it’s associated with low quality, low price items with poor environmental and social attributes.
However, as our economies continue to evolve, we need to start looking at China in a different way: not as a producer, but as a consumer. The size of the middle class has been rising dramatically in China, meaning that a market of consumers is opening up at a dramatic pace.
And while many products they buy will be ones made in China, there is the opportunity to introduce your services or products to them as well. They might assign value to “foreign goods,” and thankfully the reputation of North America as a manufacturer has remained strong over the years, clinging to a vision of quality.
If you are thinking of targeting Asian markets, not as producers for your goods, but rather buying potential, it’s time to start preparing your business for this game plan.
Find Chinese Translators
Though many Chinese people learn English in school, most are much more comfortable in their native tongue. You also have to remember that China is a large country with many differences between demographics, meaning you will require Chinese translation services that include both Traditional and Simplified varieties of Chinese.
By having your product or service information translated in Chinese, you are building a relationship with your audience and they will appreciate it. Though it’s not essential for all aspects of your communication, essential information like instruction manuals, product descriptions, and other important details should be available to them in their native tongue.
Do Your Market Research
It might be tough to do on your own, so consider looking for a Chinese import company or one that will specifically do market research for you. It’s most likely a completely different culture than you are used to, with different values, morals, and preconceptions, and it’s something you’ll need to understand before you can set up your marketing.
Look at past and current trends, buying patterns, and really zoom in on your buyer persona if you can. It will help you keep your marketing budget low but effective.
Look for Shipping Options
Before you jump head-first into this venture, make sure that you fully understand how the shipping, handling, and duties will look like upon delivery of your product.
Does it still have an appealing value proposition once that cost is included in the full price? Will your customers be surprised with having to pay duty upon delivery?
Maintaining client satisfaction is very important in this customer-based economy, and ensuring a smooth, easy, and pleasant interaction is essential. You might want to have someone on hand who will be able to reply to any complaint or queries in Chinese as well- huge bonus points for your company for sure!
It’s time to stop seeing China as a threat to our economy and to capitalize on the opportunity the rising middle class has presented for North America.
For years, they have been targeting us with their products and now it’s time for us to return the favor and benefit thanks to it. However, it will take some work and resources to adapt your business to the audience you are gunning for.
In the meantime, keep your company open to and responsive to the local market it is a part of, something that you don’t want to lose or sacrifice due to you eyeing different audiences.