Made-in-China Supercar Breaks World Speed Record at 496 km/h

 

 

On September 22, in Papenburg, Germany—home to one of the world’s premier high-speed proving grounds—Chinese automaker BYD made history. Its Yangwang U9 Xtreme reached an astonishing 496.22 km/h, setting a new world speed record for production cars and eclipsing Bugatti’s Chiron Super Sport 300+, which had held the crown since 2019 with 490 km/h.

 

The driver behind the record-breaking run was veteran racing legend Mark Basseng, describing the experience :”When you’re close to 500 km/h, you’re covering more than 130 meters every second. The white lines on the track blur into one, the wind noise feels almost aggressive, and even the smallest steering input could send you off course.” His words painted a vivid picture of the razor’s edge between control and chaos at such extreme speeds.

 

 

For BYD, known globally as a leader in electric vehicles and mass-market innovation, the Yangwang U9 Xtreme represents a very different ambition: to push the limits of engineering and enter the rarefied world of hypercars. The record marks not just a victory for the brand, but also a symbolic moment for China’s auto industry—demonstrating that domestic manufacturers can compete head-to-head with century-old European marques in a field once thought to be untouchable.

 

 

Art or Ecological Misstep? Fireworks Spectacle on the Plateau Draws Scrutiny

 

 

On September 19, outdoor brand Arc’teryx teamed up with Chinese artist Cai Guoqiang to stage a fireworks art display titled Ascending Dragon on the ridge of Chaqiong Gangri Mountain in Shigatse, Tibet Autonomous Region. The display began at 4,600 meters and rose to 5,050 meters, creating the impression of a dragon soaring skyward across the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau.

The spectacle, however, quickly drew public scrutiny after videos circulated online, with the hashtag climbing to the top of Weibo’s trending list. While some viewers debated its artistic and cultural significance, the sharpest criticism centered on the potential ecological damage to one of China’s most fragile environments.

 

 

In response, the Shigatse municipal Party committee and government launched an on-site investigation, promising follow-up measures based on the findings.

 

 

On September 21, Arc’teryx issued a public apology, pledging to “accept all criticism” and commit to remedial actions once environmental assessments are complete. Cai Guoqiang released a parallel statement, acknowledging planning oversights and vowing to cooperate with third-party institutions and local authorities to evaluate and mitigate any ecological impact. He further promised to contribute to restoration efforts if damage is confirmed.

 

 

The incident highlights a growing tension between large-scale cultural displays and China’s mounting emphasis on environmental stewardship, particularly in ecologically sensitive regions like the Tibetan Plateau.

 

 

Xiaomi Issues Recall for 117,000 SU7 EVs Over Assisted Driving Defect

 

 

China’s market regulator announced on September 19 that Xiaomi will recall 116,887 SU7 electric vehicles to address a defect in their assisted driving system. The recall covers standard-edition models manufactured between February 6, 2024, and August 30, 2025, according to the State Administration for Market Regulation (SAMR).

 

 

The issue lies with the L2 high-speed navigation assist function, which in rare cases may fail to properly detect, warn, or respond in extreme scenarios. “If the driver does not intervene in time, the risk of collision may increase,” SAMR said.

 

 

Xiaomi will roll out an immediate over-the-air software update to correct the problem, avoiding the need for vehicles to return to dealerships.

 

 

The National Technical Center for Product Recalls confirmed that, to date, no casualties or traffic accidents have been reported in connection with the defect. Still, the move underscores how safety remains a critical test for newcomers in China’s fast-growing EV market — where software-defined cars are both an opportunity and a liability.

 

 

iPhone 17 Launch: Scalpers, Queues, and the “Orange Pro Max Premium”

 

 

On September 19, Apple rolled out the iPhone 17 series, and Guangzhou’s Tianhuan Plaza Apple Store turned into a scene familiar to past launches: A long queue, scalpers at the doors, the Pro Max orange edition grabbing all the buzz.

 

 

Although the store normally opens at 10 a.m., customers were allowed to queue from 8 a.m. By then, lines already looped around the building. At the exit, resellers swarmed anyone carrying Apple bags, offering quick mark-ups. One common pitch: “Will you sell for an extra 600?” Many scalpers left with multiple devices in hand, even some foreigners flown in for the trade.

 

 

The star of the launch? The iPhone 17 Pro Max in orange, particularly the 256GB version. Scalpers were adding an 800 yuan premium, while the standard iPhone 17 saw little secondary market demand. As one reseller put it: “We don’t inflate prices for the basic version.”

 

 

Apple’s own data shows pre-orders were stronger than last year’s iPhone 16 series, with the Pro Max leading again. Production of the 17 Pro Max in Q3 2025 rose about 60% year-on-year, yet delivery times remained unchanged — a sign that demand is keeping up with the ramped-up supply.

 

 

The frenzy highlights a paradox in Apple’s China story. Market data shows its overall share has slipped, with Huawei reclaiming the top spot. Yet the queues and resale premiums suggest Apple still commands aspirational power among high-end Chinese consumers. In a hyper-competitive smartphone market, that brand pull — embodied in a bright orange Pro Max — remains one of Apple’s strongest assets.

 

 

Arnault Walks Nanjing Road as LVMH’s $44B Revenue Shrinks, $6B Profit Slumps

 

 

On September 16, Shanghai shoppers on Nanjing Road were treated to a surprise sight: Bernard Arnault, Chairman and CEO of LVMH, strolling along the city’s iconic shopping street. It was his third consecutive year making the trip to China, a market long seen as a barometer for global luxury demand.

The timing, however, underscored how much has changed. In 2023, when Arnault last visited, he was still the world’s richest man with a $211 billion fortune. Back then, China was buoying global luxury’s expansion. But by 2024, the tide had shifted: the number of global luxury consumers fell from 400 million in 2022 to 350 million, with total spending slipping 1–3% to $1.63 trillion.

 

 

That slowdown has left even giants feeling the strain. LVMH’s revenue fell 4% year-on-year to $43.8 billion in the first half of 2025, while net profit tumbled 22% to $6.26 billion.

 

 

Amid this backdrop, Arnault’s itinerary included a stop at Laopu Gold inside Shanghai’s IFC Mall, where he lingered over pendants, gourds, and crosses, calling the designs “exquisite and interesting.” It wasn’t the first time LVMH executives have taken a closer look at local jewelry players: in June, another senior executive visited Laopu Gold’s Beijing store.

 

 

Deputy CEO Stephane Bianchi later acknowledged what’s become increasingly visible on the ground: “Chinese consumers are showing growing interest in domestic brands.” While he didn’t name names, insiders point to explosive demand for Chinese jewelry labels—an unmistakable signal that global titans are now carefully watching their once upstart rivals.

 

China’s August Data Shows Steady Industrial and Services Growth, Retail Recovery Modest

 

 

On September 15, China’s National Bureau of Statistics released key August economic indicators:

 

 

• Industry & Services: Industrial output from large enterprises grew 5.2% year-on-year (+0.37% month-on-month), while the services production index rose 5.6% year-on-year.

• Consumption: Retail sales reached CNY 3.97 trillion, up 3.4% year-on-year and 0.17% month-on-month.

• Investment: Fixed-asset investment (excluding households) totaled CNY 32.61 trillion in the first eight months, up only 0.5%. Stripping out real estate, however, FAI growth stood at 4.2%.

• Trade: Total imports and exports in August hit CNY 3.87 trillion, up 3.5% year-on-year. Exports rose 4.8%, while imports gained 1.7%.

• Employment & Prices: The surveyed urban unemployment rate averaged 5.2% in Jan–Aug. In August, it edged up to 5.3%. CPI fell 0.4% year-on-year but was flat month-on-month; core CPI (ex-food & energy) rose 0.9%, slightly faster than July.

 

 

The data suggests a balanced picture: manufacturing and services continue to expand at a solid pace, external demand is improving, while retail and investment remain under pressure from a sluggish property sector.

 

 

Data Source: https://www.stats.gov.cn/sj/zxfb/202509/t20250915_1961181.html

 

 

CATL Launches NP3.0 Battery Platform in Munich, Targets Europe’s EV Market

 

 

On September 7, CATL unveiled its NP3.0 technology platform at a global launch event in Munich, alongside its first product under the platform—the Shenxing Pro lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery.

 

 

According to CATL, NP3.0 integrates eight core technologies: flame-retardant electrolyte, safety separator, nano-coated cathode material, cell-level safety device, aerogel insulation, fireproof coating, circuit stability control, high-voltage active cooling, and advanced system strategies. The result: even if a battery pack experiences thermal runaway, NP3.0 can maintain stable high-voltage output for up to one hour, enhancing safety in extreme conditions.

 

 

CATL released two Shenxing Pro versions:

 

 

• Long-Life Edition: WLTP range of 758 km, designed for Europe’s cross-border travel needs and long-term lease models. It carries a lifespan of 12 years or 1 million km—the longest among passenger EV batteries today.

• Ultra-Charge Edition: WLTP range of 683 km, built to handle Europe’s cold climates. With a peak charge rate of 12C, it can recharge from 20% to 80% in 20 minutes at -20°C, making it the fastest LFP battery for ultra-fast charging in Europe, according to CATL.

 

 

With China’s domestic market becoming increasingly competitive, CATL is ramping up its overseas strategy. It already operates factories in Germany and Hungary, with a Spanish plant set to start production in 2026. The NP3.0 launch marks what could be the next chapter in CATL’s European expansion.

 

 

When Gossip Meets Governance: Xiaohongshu Under Scrutiny

 

 

On September 11, the Cyberspace Administration of China (CAC) publicly called out lifestyle platform Xiaohongshu for failing to manage its information ecosystem responsibly. Regulators noted that the platform’s trending search list had been repeatedly filled with sensational celebrity gossip and trivial content, which they said undermines the integrity of the online environment.

 

 

The CAC instructed the Shanghai Cyberspace Administration to take corrective measures, including interviews with platform representatives, formal directives for reform, and disciplinary actions against those responsible, citing the Regulations on the Governance of the Online Information Content Ecosystem.

 

 

Xiaohongshu responded swiftly, acknowledging the criticism and promising to “engage in profound reflection” while forming a dedicated task force to clean up the trending list. The company pledged to strengthen oversight and launch special governance initiatives to prevent similar issues.

 

 

The controversy highlights a recurring tension in China’s digital landscape: the commercial incentives that drive platforms to amplify celebrity gossip versus the state’s push to cultivate a “healthy” online discourse. While trending lists boost traffic and ad revenue, regulators warn that a constant stream of low-value content risks distorting public attention and corroding the credibility of online platforms.

 

 

Xibei vs. Luo Yonghao: A Fresh Fight Over “Pre-Made” Meals

 

 

On September 10, tech entrepreneur and outspoken internet personality Luo Yonghao ignited a storm online after dining at Xibei with colleagues. In a social media post, he claimed that “almost all the dishes were pre-made and sold at high prices,” and called for legislation requiring restaurants to clearly label pre-prepared dishes. With his large following, the remarks quickly went viral, pulling Xibei into the center of public scrutiny.

 

 

Xibei, a household name in Northwest Chinese cuisine with nearly 400 outlets across 60 cities, swiftly pushed back. Founder and CEO Jia Guolong denied the allegations outright, insisting that none of the chain’s dishes qualify as pre-prepared meals under national standards. According to Chinese regulations, hot dishes produced in a central kitchen and distributed across chain restaurants are not classified as “pre-prepared,” even if unused portions can be preserved for months.

 

 

Luo responded again on September 12 in a livestream, sharpening his critique. While stressing that he does not oppose pre-made dishes in principle, Luo argued that marketing heavily processed or long-preserved food as “fresh” without transparency misleads diners. “The issue,” he said, “is not whether pre-made dishes exist, but whether consumers have the right to know—and whether what they’re paying for matches what they expect.”

 

 

Amid the controversy, Xibei leaned on its long-promoted “open kitchen” policy, inviting media and customers to observe food preparation. Yet by midday on September 14, reporters and diners said they were temporarily barred from entering kitchens for filming or livestreaming—an awkward twist that only intensified debate.

 

 

National media soon weighed in. On September 13, Xinhua News Agency remarked: “It’s not pre-made food that worries us, but not telling us.” A day later, People’s Daily called the discussion “a clash of views moving toward consensus,” while CCTV News pressed the key question: “What exactly counts as pre-made food?”

 

 

By September 15, Xibei issued a public apology on its official Weibo account. The chain pledged that by October 1, 2025, all of its outlets would switch from standard soybean oil to non-GMO soybean oil, and that certain dishes—such as kids’ meals and grilled lamb skewers—would return to being freshly cooked in-store.

The spat has tapped into a broader public anxiety in China’s dining scene: as cost pressures push restaurants toward central kitchens and standardized production, consumers are increasingly questioning where the line between “fresh” and “factory” really lies.

 

 

Xiaomi executive Wang Teng has been dismissed

 

 

On September 8, Xiaomi issued an internal notice announcing the dismissal of Wang Teng, general manager of Xiaomi’s China marketing department and head of the Redmi brand, citing “serious violations” of company rules. According to the notice, Wang was found to have leaked confidential company information and engaged in conflicts of interest, leading to his immediate termination.

 

That evening, Wang took to Weibo with a public apology, saying he accepted the consequences of his mistakes, thanked Xiaomi founder Lei Jun and the leadership team for their support, and added that he planned to “take a short break before starting anew.”

 

 

Wang’s abrupt fall is striking. A seasoned Xiaomi veteran, he had reached level 21 in the company’s hierarchy — one step below the highest rank — positioning him among Lei Jun’s core lieutenants.

 

 

Xiaomi’s handling of the matter has also drawn notice. The company’s statement focused not on information leaks, but on a conflict of interest, with the decision framed as outright dismissal rather than a face-saving resignation. Insiders note this approach falls somewhere between quiet internal settlement and legal escalation: achievements acknowledged, mistakes penalized, but no criminal proceedings.

 

 

Equally notable was Wang’s response. His apology struck a markedly humble tone, accepting fault, expressing gratitude, and publicly conceding the company had shown leniency. The exchange highlights a delicate corporate balance — a high-profile executive exit carried out with formality, but without burning bridges.

 

China Plans Asteroid Defense Test — and Outpaces Sci-Fi

 

 

On September 5, 2025, Wu Weiren, chief designer of China’s lunar exploration program, announced that the country will carry out a kinetic impact demonstration mission on an asteroid to test planetary defense capabilities. Speaking at the third International Conference on Deep Space Exploration (Tiandu), Wu said the mission will use space–ground collaborative observation and high-speed imaging to measure changes in the asteroid’s orbit, shape, and ejecta — allowing scientists to accurately assess the impact effects.

 

 

China also plans to invite global partners to participate, with cooperation opportunities in ground-based monitoring, payload integration, and data sharing.

 

 

But while the announcement marked a serious milestone in space science, it also triggered a lighter reaction online. The Weibo hashtag “Guo Fan’s script was rewritten overnight” quickly trended, a tongue-in-cheek reference to the acclaimed director of The Wandering Earth. As many netizens joked, China’s space program is now advancing so quickly that even sci-fi screenwriters can barely keep up.

 

 

Russia Opens Its Doors: Visa-Free Entry for Chinese Tourists

 

 

On September 5, CCTV News reported that President Vladimir Putin, speaking at the plenary session of the Eastern Economic Forum, announced Russia will introduce a visa-free policy for Chinese citizens, a reciprocal gesture to China’s earlier move.

 

 

The travel industry expects the policy to turbocharge demand. Within just one hour of the announcement, Tongcheng Travel recorded a sixfold surge in searches for Russian travel products. Popular picks included Moscow, St. Petersburg, Murmansk, and Kazan — destinations already high on Chinese tourists’ wish lists.

 

 

Qunar’s flight index tells a similar story: searches for Moscow and St. Petersburg flights doubled year-on-year last week, while Beijing–St. Petersburg searches jumped threefold. This summer has already seen more independent travelers heading to Russia, and the visa-free policy is widely expected to draw even greater numbers over the upcoming National Day holiday.

 

 

Russia has long been among the top 10 destinations for outbound Chinese travelers. With barriers now falling, the stage is set for a wave of tourists crossing the border — and for Russia’s tourism sector, a golden holiday season may be just ahead.

 

 

China’s Railways to Retire Paper Vouchers, Embrace Full Digital Era

 

 

China’s railway system will take another step toward full digitalization on September 30, 2025, when paper reimbursement vouchers are officially discontinued and replaced by e-invoices.

 

 

The move is the latest in a steady digital shift: since November 2023, passengers have been able to request electronic invoices directly online, without visiting counters or kiosks. The announcement has stirred nostalgia online, with many netizens posting photos of old paper tickets — keepsakes of past journeys — as a way to reminisce.

 

 

 

 

Some worry that elderly passengers could face difficulties. Railway authorities stress, however, that self-service machines will continue to provide printed travel itineraries, listing key details such as departure times, stations, seat numbers, and boarding gates.

 

 

With digital tickets already the norm, this change signals not just the end of paper stubs, but the beginning of a smoother, more connected travel experience.

 

 

Wax Figures Melt Away: Madame Tussauds Exits Beijing

 

 

On September 4, Madame Tussauds Beijing announced it will permanently close its doors on October 1, 2025, citing the expiration of its lease and adjustments to brand strategy. Most of the wax figures will be relocated to other Madame Tussauds locations in China.

 

 

The challenges facing the Beijing branch mirror broader headwinds for wax museums. First, the economics are daunting: annual rent alone ranges between CNY 16 million and 27 million, while creating a single wax figure costs up to CNY 300,000, not including ongoing maintenance and administrative expenses. In total, operating costs easily exceed CNY 30 million per year, making profitability elusive.

 

 

Second, the wax museum’s core strength—its celebrity IP—is losing traction. Younger consumers are increasingly captivated by internet personalities and next-generation idols, but wax figure updates have failed to keep pace with shifting tastes. Static displays also struggle in an era when audiences seek immersive, interactive experiences such as VR gaming or escape rooms.

 

 

Finally, the brand’s parent company, Merlin Entertainments, is pursuing a strategic realignment. In Beijing, where the tourism market is heavily anchored in historical and cultural attractions like the Forbidden City, the entertainment-centric wax museum struggled to fit its surroundings. By closing in Beijing, resources can be better concentrated on other locations such as Shanghai, Hong Kong, and Wuhan, improving overall efficiency.

 

 

In short, the closure underscores both rising operational pressures and changing consumer preferences — and reflects Merlin’s bid to sharpen its China portfolio.

 

 

China’s AI Heavyweights Land on TIME100 AI List

 

 

Time magazine has unveiled its third annual TIME100 AI list, spotlighting the 100 most influential figures shaping artificial intelligence. This year, three names from China stand out: Huawei’s Ren Zhengfei, DeepSeek’s Liang Wenfeng, and Unitree’s Wang Xingxing.

 

 

 

 

Ren Zhengfei — the legendary founder of Huawei — began with a small switch-reselling business in 1987. Nearly four decades later, he leads a global tech giant. Despite facing heavy U.S. sanctions, Huawei reported over $118 billion in revenue in 2024. Its Ascend 910C chip is said to deliver 60% of Nvidia H100’s inference performance, while its CloudMatrix 384 supercomputing system showcases how China is building AI infrastructure with homegrown chips.

 

 

 

 

 

Liang Wenfeng, founder of DeepSeek, shook the AI world in January with the release of R1, the first open-weight model to challenge OpenAI’s latest launch. Trained for just $6 million, R1 ignited comparisons with OpenAI’s mega-budget Project Stargate, estimated at $500 billion. The launch sent shockwaves through markets, briefly erasing $1 trillion from Nvidia and other U.S. tech stocks — proof that even a small Chinese startup can unsettle Silicon Valley’s biggest players.

 

 

 

 

 

Wang Xingxing, founder of Unitree, stole the spotlight in January when dozens of his humanoid robots performed on China’s most-watched TV show. Unitree now claims two-thirds of the global robot dog market and says half its sales come from overseas. Wang’s design mantra is simple: fewer parts mean stronger, cheaper, and more durable robots. He’s betting that as AI improves, humanoids will move beyond preprogramming — say, cleaning a room they’ve never seen before — making robots truly autonomous helpers.

 

 

Open any Chinese shopping app, and you’ll notice something different: influencers selling everything from skincare to real estate through livestreams.

Behind this shift are MCNs (Multi-Channel Networks)—the operational backbone supporting China’s top influencers and livestreamers. Through connecting brands with influential online figures, these agencies coordinate marketing campaigns that boost awareness and sales.

If you’re familiar with Western influencer marketing, China’s MCN model will feel surprisingly different. While their Western counterparts focus on ad revenue, the role of MCNs in China extends far beyond what you might expect from influencer marketing.

 

What Is an MCN? Breaking Down the Model

An MCN (Multi-Channel Network), known in Chinese as 内容中介机构 (nèi róng zhōng jiè jī gòu), is essentially a hybrid between a talent and content creation agency. Think of them as the matchmakers that connect online figures with brands to sell products or build brand awareness.

Here’s where Chinese MCNs differ significantly from their Western counterparts. Western MCNs, particularly those working with YouTube creators, primarily focus on maximizing ad revenue and securing brand partnerships. Their success is measured in views, engagement rates, and sponsorship deals.

Chinese MCNs, however, mostly work with both Key Opinion Leaders (KOLs) and Key Opinion Consumers (KOCs). They handle everything from training, guiding content development, and shaping the influencer’s online presence—all to help the collaborating brand reach more users.

Put simply, a Chinese MCN manages social media personalities for diverse content production (e.g., livestreams, short dramas, and ads).

 

Market Snapshot: How Big Is China’s MCN Ecosystem?

According to the 2025–2030 China MCN Industry Market Analysis and Forecast and the 2024–2025 China Livestream & Short Video MCN Agency Development Report, China’s MCN ecosystem is projected to exceed 60,000 agencies with a market size of roughly $9.75 billion by 2025.

These projections highlight the significant growth and diversification of China’s MCN industry, driven by expanding agency numbers and an increasing market value.

 

The MCN Ecosystem: Platforms & Use Cases

Chinese MCNs operate across several distinct business models, each serving different market needs:

• IP incubators: develop and monetize intellectual properties (e.g., characters, shows, or brand concepts)
• Talent matrix platforms: manage a large network of influencers across genres
• Marketing-driven agencies: connect brands with KOLs for strategic advertising campaigns
• Vertical content brands: specialize in specific niches (e.g., beauty or fashion) to build deeper expertise

 

To reach a larger audience, these MCNs distribute content across the major Chinese platforms:

• Douyin (China’s version of TikTok) dominates short-form video in both urban and rural areas
• Kuaishou focuses on short-form videos and livestreams for smaller-city audiences
• Xiaohongshu serves as China’s lifestyle discovery platform
• Taobao integrates shopping directly into livestreams
• Bilibili caters to younger, more engaged communities
• Weibo drives trends through text posts and influencer content

 

Use Case 1: Jellycat’s Celebrity Partnership

British toy brand Jellycat collaborated with celebrity influencer Song Yuqi to connect with more customers in China. Such high-profile partnerships would typically involve MCN coordination. They would handle the talent negotiations, content strategy across platforms, and campaign amplification to ensure consistent messaging and broad reach.

 

Use Case 2: KOL Partnerships for Livestream Sales

In China’s livestream e-commerce model, influencers host live shopping sessions where they interact with viewers who can purchase instantly through the stream. Brands typically work with MCNs to identify livestream hosts who match their target demographics and can authentically present their products during these real-time sales events.

For example, during the 2024 “Double 11” shopping festival, Gao Yuyu (@高芋芋) generated over 100 million RMB in sales for Kans skincare—setting a three-day sales record for the brand in the process.

Interestingly, the scale of livestream e-commerce in China is so significant that Hangzhou features X27 Park, a 24/7 shopping complex where you can also watch KOLs broadcasting live as they promote products in real time.

 

Use Case 3: Starbucks Using Douyin Livestreams

Beyond large shopping festivals, many brands leverage livestreaming for daily engagement. Among them, Starbucks China is a great example.

Starbucks regularly collaborates with livestream hosts on Douyin to promote limited-time drinks, seasonal campaigns, and special offers. These KOLs focus on clearly and repeatedly highlighting key promotion details (e.g., what the deal includes) to encourage fast conversions. Such a strategy helps the brand stay in front of consumers and drive daily sales.

 

Why MCNs Succeed in China: Culture, Speed & Commerce

Generally, people like to buy from those they trust. In China, KOLs and KOCs fill that role, and MCNs amplify this trust by running promotional events where consumers can interact with these influencers in real time.

The structural foundation supporting MCNs is equally important. As can be seen from the Starbucks example, the country hosts mobile-first platforms (e.g., Douyin, Kuaishou, and Taobao) that allow users to watch a product demonstration and complete a purchase without leaving the app.

Additionally, the country is known for fast logistics networks that ensure next-day or same-day delivery in major cities. This speed complements the instant nature of livestream shopping, making influencer-driven sales even more effective.

Rather than superior technology, MCNs succeed in China because livestreams have become a normal way to shop online—and this is leveraged by bridging brands to trusted online voices.

 

The Global Implication: What Businesses Can Learn from MCNs

International brands can learn from MCNs’ deep understanding of China’s content platforms and the key players who operate within them. They thrive by using this understanding to connect the right creators with the right opportunities, becoming essential facilitators in the process.

The Chinese MCN model highlights the importance of understanding the country’s broader digital marketplace. To really grasp this, it helps to look at the whole ecosystem behind MCNs—and what businesses can learn from China’s e-commerce industry.

When trying to understand where e-commerce is headed, China is one of those eye-opening places to start.

China’s e-commerce platforms offer valuable insights into how digital experiences, content, and logistics can work together to shape buying behavior. Many from China’s e-commerce industry function quite differently from those you find elsewhere.

In this guide, we’ll break down six popular players in China, how each one operates, and why they’re worth paying attention to.

 

1. JD.com: Speed, Trust, and Quality Control

Known for: First-party logistics and fast, reliable delivery

Think of JD.com as China’s equivalent to Amazon—but with even tighter control over logistics and product quality. In Q1 2025, JD Retail saw a 16.3% YoY increase in net revenue, signaling strong consumer trust and consistent demand.

JD stands out from other platforms because it doesn’t just host third-party sellers—it also sells products directly to consumers. Instead of relying solely on external merchants, JD buys inventory from brands and handles storage, packing, and delivery through its own logistics network, JD Logistics.

This level of control allows JD to guarantee faster shipping and better quality assurance. Shoppers in major cities can often receive their orders the same day or the next, even for large items like TVs and refrigerators. Because of this reliability, JD is especially popular among consumers shopping for electronics, appliances, and personal care items who prioritize trust and fast delivery.

Its premium membership, JD Plus, mirrors Amazon Prime with perks like faster shipping and exclusive discounts. JD is also raising the bar in logistics by launching routine drone deliveries in cities like Guangzhou, Suzhou, Chongqing, and Shenzhen.

In an industry where authenticity and speed are crucial, JD shows how logistics can be the differentiator.

 

2. Taobao & Tmall: Alibaba’s Dual Engines for Online Retail

Known for: Massive scale, entertainment-driven shopping, and brand flagship stores

Alibaba’s e-commerce dominance is built on two distinct platforms: Taobao (a vast C2C marketplace) and Tmall (a premium B2C space for official brands). Taobao itself has reached over 910 million monthly active users. And based on recent GMV rankings, they both process more transactions than any other e-commerce ecosystem globally.

You can access both platforms directly within the Taobao app, which is renowned for its massive shopping festivals and booming livestream commerce.

According to Alibaba’s 2025 6.18 festival performance, 453 brands surpassed CNY 100 million ($14 million) in GMV, and 81 livestream channels crossed that same threshold.

Alibaba’s loyalty program, 88VIP, has now exceeded 50 million members, unlocking perks across shopping, entertainment, and daily services.

Compared to JD, Alibaba leans more on seller variety, while JD focuses on electronic gadgets and logistics. But the real advantage lies in Alibaba’s integrated online shopping ecosystem. With Alipay for payments and Cainiao for logistics, the company is able to create a seamless, immersive commerce experience that few can match.

 

3. Alipay: The Payment Backbone of Chinese E-Commerce

Known for: Powering digital payments and essential life services

Alipay is China’s leading digital wallet—think PayPal or Apple Pay, but with more functions. It powers transactions across platforms like Taobao and Tmall, holding a 75% share of their online payments.

It also supports international users. If you’re visiting China, you can use your overseas bank cards from major networks (e.g., Visa, Mastercard, JCB, Diners Club, and Discover) directly through Alipay.

With 1.04 billion monthly active users, Alipay is more than just a way to pay. Its massive reach is driven in part by its support for cross-border payments, making it the go-to method for Chinese tourists traveling abroad. In 2025 alone, Alipay processed an astonishing CNY 144.2 trillion ($20.1 trillion) in transactions.

Different sources offer varying figures on whether Alipay or WeChat Pay holds the largest domestic market share. However, it’s observed that WeChat Pay is used more frequently in daily life. Alipay, on the other hand, sees larger average monthly payments, with users spending around 2.3 times more per month than WeChat Pay users.

Beyond payments, Alipay offers a full ecosystem of services:

• Daily-life needs like utility bills, public transport, and hospital appointments
• Financial tools including investment funds, digital gold, and savings management
• Government services such as social security inquiries and tax processing
• Credit services to access small loans or build a digital credit profile

 

4. WeChat: Social Messaging with Built-In Shopping

Known for: Enabling commerce through messaging, payments, and Mini Programs

WeChat isn’t a traditional e-commerce platform. It started as a messaging app, but today it’s arguably China’s most integrated digital ecosystem. It’s widely used in China for chatting, paying bills, reading news, booking doctors, and more.

With over 1.38 billion users, it plays a central role in communication, payments, and media in daily life. And while it doesn’t offer the typical shopping homepage you find in JD.com or Taobao, e-commerce is still deeply embedded thanks to Mini Programs.

Mini Programs are lightweight apps that run inside WeChat without requiring downloads. You can use them for everything from life services and government tasks to even buying movie tickets. They’re commonly used in daily life for transportation and financial management, but mobile shopping is a large use case too.

In 2024, Mini Programs reached 949 million users with a 3% year-on-year increase. Brands use Mini Programs and official accounts to build their own stores, promote products, and offer support all within the WeChat ecosystem.

WeChat isn’t a traditional e-commerce platform. It began as a simple messaging app, but today it’s arguably China’s most integrated digital platform. With over a billion users, it plays a central role in communication, payments, and media in daily life. What’s less obvious is how commerce fits into that ecosystem.

WeChat proves that in China, e-commerce doesn’t have to be a dedicated shopping platform, but rather a smart integration into the apps people already use every day.

 

5. Douyin: Short Videos & Livestream Selling

Known for: livestream commerce and content-driven discovery shopping

Many know Douyin as the Chinese counterpart to TikTok. While both are developed by ByteDance, Douyin serves the mainland China market, and TikTok caters to users globally. Though they look alike, Douyin’s e-commerce functionalities are more mature.

In 2025, Douyin (including its lite version) reached 1.001 billion monthly active users, demonstrating massive market penetration. It’s one of China’s largest ecommerce players, generating roughly CNY 3.5 trillion ($487 billion) in GMV in 2024, up 30% year-over-year.

Unlike traditional platforms where consumers search for products, Douyin focuses on discovery-based shopping where users find products through engaging short videos and livestreams. This immersive approach has driven impressive results. Just as how many brands did well on Taobao and Tmall during the 6.18 festival, over 60,000 brands doubled their sales on Douyin year-over-year.

While browsing the app, you’ll realize that influencers form the core driver of Douyin’s sales, especially through livestream sales where they host live product demos and promote flash deals. TikTok is building a similar ecosystem to Douyin with TikTok Shop and Fulfilled by TikTok. But it’s still developing, especially outside Southeast Asia, where livestream commerce is emerging.

Understanding Douyin gives global brands insights on where TikTok and content-driven e-commerce are headed in the near future as it continues to mature.

 

6. Kuaishou: Popular Among Lower-Tier Cities

Known for: Community-driven content in lower-tier cities and rural areas

At first glance, Kuaishou feels similar to Douyin. Both are short video platforms where livestreaming plays a central role in their e-commerce functionalities. As a short video platform, it boasts 712 million monthly active users (about 29% less than Douyin).

While Douyin appeals to young, urban users, Kuaishou has a stronger presence in lower-tier areas, with 60% of users from third-tier and fourth-tier cities. Moreover, Kuaishou’s users have a broader age distribution, attracting many middle-aged and elderly users.

You’ll notice that both app interfaces are nearly identical. You’ll find scrollable feeds, short dramas, and built-in stores on both. Nevertheless, their audience demographics differ sharply.

In terms of content culture, Douyin tends to showcase polished content centered on fashion, entertainment, and education. In contrast, Kuaishou is known for its less curated, everyday videos that reflect real life. Many refer to this as 老铁文化 (lǎo tiě wén huà) or “bro culture,” a term for the close-knit, loyal bond between creators and their followers.

Despite these differences, Kuaishou also offers “Kuaishop,” an in-app e-commerce platform similar to Douyin’s, with sellers offering daily goods, gadgets, and promotional snack bundles.

 

7. Xiaohongshu (RED): Aesthetic-Driven Discovery with High Trust

Known for: Lifestyle discovery and trusted peer advice

Xiaohongshu (RedNote) started as an overseas shopping guide and has grown into a lifestyle-focused platform. It’s now a trusted search engine for lifestyle decisions—combining the best of Instagram and Pinterest’s aesthetically visual content for product discovery.

The platform has 242 million monthly active users (up 13.2% YoY), with a core demographic of young, urban consumers:

• 43% are aged 18–24
• 72% are female (nearly 30% male)
• 66% live in first-tier and new first-tier cities

With such a user base, Xiaohongshu has become known as a hotspot for lifestyle, fashion, and skincare inspiration. It’s commonly used to discover trending cafés, skincare routines, travel tips, and more. Beyond physical goods, users also sell digital products like guides and courses directly on the platform.

Most of the content found here is for discovering and becoming inspired through UGC (user-generated content). More recently, the platform has featured more globally diverse content from foreign influencers and expats living in China. This shift attracted new audiences and encouraged more global brands to explore the platform as a way to reach Chinese consumers.

Since 2019, Xiaohongshu has enabled brands to open in-app stores. This was an intuitive step given the platform’s role in influencing purchase decisions. To increase visibility, brands often collaborate with influencers to create UGC that drives both brand awareness and credibility.

 

8. Bilibili: Gen Z Platform with Niche E-Commerce Power

Known for: video content with integrated creator commerce

Bilibili is often thought of as a video platform much like YouTube, where ecommerce functionality might not be expected. Yet, while it remains primarily content-first, it has developed unique commerce features that cater to its active user base.

Originally focused on anime, comics, and gaming (ACG) culture, Bilibili has expanded to become a broad entertainment hub attracting highly engaged Gen Z and young Millennials. Looking at Bilibili’s Q1 2025 user statistics, the platform boasts 107 million daily active users and over 368 million monthly active users. Over 65% of its audience belongs to Gen Z and younger generations.

While not primarily an e-commerce platform, Bilibili offers creators multiple ways to monetize. Creators, known as UP masters, can open personal stores to sell merchandise such as apparel and collectibles. They also offer blind boxes where fans can win prizes ranging from expensive figurines to refrigerator magnets.

Bilibili’s e-commerce is driven mostly by small and mid-sized creators rather than celebrity influencers, reflecting how its community prefers authentic, niche-driven shopping experiences embedded within shared interests.

It’s especially popular for electronics and ACG merchandise, making it a unique blend of culture and commerce.

 

Conclusion: One Market, Many Models

While China is one market, there are many modes of selling, discovering, and engaging. Each platform plays a distinct role, from product search and brand building to online sales. Together, they shape a highly interconnected digital shopping experience.

In this overview, these popular companies and their key statistics are just one piece of a much larger puzzle. To deepen your understanding, explore our full breakdown of China’s e-commerce landscape for insights and strategies for navigating this unique market.

For deeper insights that can spark your business strategy, explore our full breakdown of China’s e-commerce industry. It’s packed with practical takeaways to inform your business strategy and help you navigate this fast-evolving market.

Cambricon Overtakes Moutai as China’s Priciest A-Share

 

 

On August 27, Cambricon’s stock price surged more than 10% intraday to CNY 1,464.98, briefly surpassing Kweichow Moutai to become the most expensive share in China’s A-share market. By August 28, the rally had carried its stock to CNY 1,587.91, nearly tripling from early July.

 

 

Behind the market excitement is a dramatic shift in fundamentals. According to its interim report, first-half 2025 revenue jumped 43-fold year-on-year to CNY 2.88 billion, while net profit reached CNY 1.04 billion, marking its first half-year profit since listing in 2020. In the first half of 2025, Cambricon posted a net operating cash inflow of CNY 911 million — a sharp turnaround from a CNY 631 million outflow a year earlier. The shift points to a meaningful upgrade in the quality of its earnings.

 

 

Founded in 2016, Cambricon specializes in AI chip design and has long been considered one of China’s most promising semiconductor stories. Its strong H1 results suggest that early investments in research are starting to convert into commercial traction, thanks in part to broader demand from AI applications.

 

 

Cambricon’s share price leapfrogging Moutai is symbolically striking, underscoring how AI and semiconductors now dominate investor narratives in China. Yet analysts note that much of its valuation still rests on expectations for the industry’s future growth. Whether Cambricon can sustain profitability and justify its lofty price will depend on how well it executes in a fiercely competitive chip market.

 

 

Xiaohongshu Puts E-Commerce at the Heart of Its Platform

 

 

In 2025, Xiaohongshu has been moving fast to reposition itself—not just as a social platform, but as a lifestyle-driven e-commerce hub. Its pitch to the market is clear: forget rock-bottom prices, this is about youth, taste, and carefully curated experiences.

 

 

 

 

At a media briefing on August 28, the company revealed that half of its 350 million monthly active users are post-95s, mostly from China’s first- and second-tier cities. More strikingly, 70% of users who shop on Xiaohongshu’s marketplace also come from this cohort, underlining both their spending power and influence.

 

 

This year, the company doubled down on e-commerce, launching incubation centers in Yiwu and Guangzhou and rolling out a “One Million Commission-Free Plan” for merchants. Perhaps the biggest move: shifting the Marketplace tab to the app’s homepage—a design change that signals strategic intent rather than mere UI tinkering.

 

 

The platform’s selling point isn’t scale or traffic, but the promise of “quality products.” Xiaohongshu frames its e-commerce shoppers as young, discerning, and willing to pay for goods that align with their tastes. To bring that identity offline, it hosted its first in-person market in Shanghai (Aug 28–31), featuring 100+ merchants showcasing curated collections.

 

 

Still, there’s a paradox at play. For many big brands, Xiaohongshu remains less a sales engine and more a “concept lab”—a place to build narratives, inspire interest, and seed ideas before consumers compare prices and buy elsewhere. The ones that thrive within its ecosystem tend to be brands that were born on Xiaohongshu or speak directly to its youthful, aspirational user base.

 

 

NBA Stars Flood China, But Sneaker Craze Fades

 

 

Between late June and August, China has seen a parade of NBA stars — Anthony Edwards, James Harden, Nikola Jokic, Jimmy Butler, Kawhi Leonard, Stephen Curry, and more. Sports brands from Adidas and Nike to Li-Ning and Under Armour have been behind the surge, using star tours to energize local marketing campaigns.

 

 

The timing is no coincidence. While basketball remains a core business for global sportswear giants, the sneaker resale boom has cooled. A report from the sneaker trading platform StockX indicates that in 2024, only 47% of sneakers on the platform were sold at prices exceeding their original release prices, compared to 58% in 2020.The days when limited-edition Jordans or Yeezys drew overnight queues and eye-watering resale prices are fading fast.

 

 

Instead, running culture is on the rise. The growing popularity of marathons has propelled niche players like ON and HOKA into the spotlight, forcing even incumbents such as Nike, Adidas, Anta, and Li-Ning to ramp up their investments in running shoes.

 

 

Still, basketball shoes remain the premium showcase of the industry — the arena where technology, performance, and fashion converge. They may no longer ignite the speculative frenzy of years past, but for sports brands, they continue to define prestige and capture consumer imagination.

 

 

From Skyscrapers to Small Towns: China’s Grads Rethink Where to Work

 

 

According to a report by MyCOS Research Institute released on August 27, fresh graduates in China are gradually broadening their horizons beyond Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Shenzhen.

 

 

Over the past five years, the share of bachelor’s degree graduates heading to first-tier cities has edged down, holding steady at 15% for the class of 2024. Emerging first-tier cities such as Chengdu, Hangzhou, and Wuhan accounted for 25%, also stable in recent years. Meanwhile, second-tier and smaller cities are gaining ground: their combined share climbed from 56% for the class of 2020 to 60% for the class of 2024.

 

 

Several forces are reshaping this landscape. The shift of industries into lower-tier cities has created new job opportunities, while local governments have nurtured specialized clusters that attract young talent. Better infrastructure and public services have also made these cities more livable. Add to that the lower cost of housing and daily life—and for many, the bonus of staying closer to family—and the appeal is clear.

 

 

Still, the pull of the megacities remains strong. First-tier cities continue to top the charts for out-of-province hires: 82% of graduates employed in Beijing and 75% in Shanghai come from elsewhere, underscoring their magnetism for talent nationwide. Salaries add to the draw. MyCOS data shows undergraduates in first-tier cities earned an average monthly income of RMB 7,885 in 2024, well above the national average of RMB 6,199.

 

 

The result? China’s graduates are no longer just chasing skylines—they’re also chasing balance, affordability, and hometown ties. In today’s talent market, the “dream job” might just be waiting in a city you’ve never thought to put on the global map.

 

 

China’s Qixi Festival Sparks Marriage Boom—and a New Trend in “Travel Registrations”

 

 

August 29 wasn’t just Chinese Valentine’s Day (Qixi Festival); it also turned into a marriage rush across the country—the first since China rolled out nationwide marriage registration services earlier this year.

 

 

In Guangdong Province alone, 10,558 couples tied the knot that day, including 2,452 pairs from outside the province. Shanghai reported another 2,310 newly registered marriages.

 

 

But beyond the sheer numbers, what’s catching attention is where couples are choosing to say “I do.” Thanks to new rules effective May 10, couples can now register their marriage at any eligible registry nationwide, not just in their hometowns. The result? A surge in “travel marriage registrations,” where couples combine paperwork with picturesque backdrops.

 

 

Take Sayram Lake in Xinjiang’s Bortala Mongolian Autonomous Prefecture: on Qixi, more than 300 couples flocked there to formalize their unions against the backdrop of turquoise waters and alpine peaks. Staff noted it was the busiest season they had ever seen.

 

 

Why the extra effort? As Peking University professor Ma Liang explains, the practice mirrors a global trend: young people increasingly seek ceremonies that feel experiential and symbolic, not just administrative. For them, a marriage certificate framed by breathtaking scenery offers both legal recognition and emotional resonance.