China business
China market entry
Entering China is a sequence of commercial decisions, not a single launch. We research the market, recommend an entry model you can afford to run, and then take the first steps with you.
Overview
A market study that ends in a slide deck is where most China projects stall. We keep the research narrow enough to be answered properly — is there demand, at what price, against whom, through which channel — and then continue into execution with the same team.
Where the honest answer is that the market does not justify the investment, we say so. That has saved clients more than any entry plan we have written.
Scope
What this service covers
Feasibility and demand research
Market size, segments, buying behaviour and the realistic addressable share for your product.
Competitor and pricing analysis
Who already sells to your target customer, at what price, and how your offer compares locally.
Regulatory and certification review
The certifications, standards and import requirements your product must meet before it can be sold.
Entry model
Distributor, joint venture, representative office or own entity — assessed against your budget and control requirements.
Partner screening
Distributors and agents identified, verified and met, rather than introduced and hoped for.
First commercial steps
Trade fair presence, first meetings, pilot orders and the local material you need to be credible.
How we work
How it runs
Scope
Objectives, product, budget and time horizon agreed.
Research
Demand, competitors, pricing and regulatory requirements.
Recommend
An entry model with cost, risk and a staged plan.
Screen
Partners or channels identified and verified.
Enter
First meetings, fair presence and pilot business.
Output
What you receive
- Market and competitor report with pricing analysis
- Certification and regulatory requirement list
- Entry model recommendation with indicative costs
- Screened list of distributors or channel partners
- A staged 12-month plan with decision points
Client work
KAN-therm
Market development, company setup, trade fair representation, local trainings and certifications for a European HVAC manufacturer with 1300+ employees. Working with us since 2019.
See all case studies →
Questions
China market entry — frequently asked
How long does market entry take?
Research is typically 6–10 weeks. Commercial traction usually falls in a 6–18 month window depending on the sales cycle and certification requirements.
Do we need our own Chinese company?
Often not at first. Many clients start through a distributor or through our China desk and register an entity only once volume justifies it.
Can you help us evaluate or enter the Chinese market?
Yes. We help international companies assess opportunities and build practical entry plans for China.
Depending on the project, this may include market and competitor research, regulatory guidance, customer or distributor identification, partner searches, brand localization, digital platform setup, business development and ongoing local representation.