Tmall vs Tmall Global: which platform will be better for your brand?
Tmall and Tmall Global are two key e-commerce platforms in China that play a vital role in helping international brands reach Chinese consumers. As an international merchant, it is essential to choose the right platform that suits your brand’s goals and objectives. In this article, we will discuss the differences between Tmall and Tmall Global, and help you select the right platform for your brand.
Tmall, also known as Tmall.com, is an online marketplace owned by Alibaba Group. It is a popular platform where local Chinese merchants, as well as international brands, sell their products. Tmall focuses mainly on B2C (Business to Consumer) transactions and offers a wide range of products, including electronics, fashion, and beauty.
On the other hand, Tmall Global is a cross-border e-commerce platform that sells products from international brands to Chinese consumers. Tmall Global provides international merchants with access to the Chinese market, which was previously difficult to enter due to regulatory requirements. Tmall Global operates as a standalone platform, with its own logo, portal, and search functions, and allows international brands to reach customers in China with greater ease.
One of the main advantages of Tmall Global is that international brands can sell their products directly to Chinese consumers, eliminating the need for a local distributor. This makes the platform ideal for foreign brands that want to expand their market presence in China. Additionally, Tmall Global takes care of the entire distribution process, from customs clearance to product delivery, making it easier for international brands to sell their products to Chinese consumers.
Tmall, on the other hand, is an ideal platform for local Chinese merchants who want to reach Chinese consumers on a large scale. For international brands that already have a presence in China, Tmall can be an excellent option to reach a wider audience. Moreover, Tmall provides brands with a more comprehensive suite of services, including marketing and advertising, customer engagement, and social media promotion.
Tmall and Tmall Global also have different pricing structures. Tmall charges a deposit fee, annual service fee, and commission percentage for each product sold. Tmall Global, on the other hand, charges a deposit fee and commission percentage. The commission percentage is also different for Tmall Global and Tmall, with Tmall Global charging a slightly higher commission.
So, which platform is better for your brand? The answer depends on your business goals and objectives. If you have a physical presence in China and want to reach a wider audience, Tmall may be a better choice. However, if you want to expand your business in China and don’t have a physical presence, Tmall Global is the better option.
In conclusion, both Tmall and Tmall Global offer unique opportunities for international merchants to sell their products in the Chinese market. Each platform has its own advantages and disadvantages. Therefore, it is essential to research both platforms thoroughly and choose the right platform that suits your business needs.