Please see below our most commonly asked questions about listing on Tmall Global:
Who is NextPlat
NextPlat is a Nasdaq listed global company that aims to capitalize on multiple high-growth sectors and markets, including e-commerce, technology and healthcare.
We collaborate with businesses and brands, optimizing their ability to sell goods online, domestically and internationally, enabling customers and partners to maximize their e-commerce presence and revenue.
Leveraging our extensive e-commerce experience, we can transform emerging brands into best sellers and assist well-known names in expanding beyond traditional retail to dominate the Chinese marketplace.
Our unique e-commerce distribution agreement with Alibaba, the world’s largest e-commerce company, allows NextPlat to guide companies through the complex process of selling on Tmall, China’s largest import e-commerce platform with more than 900 million monthly active customers.
Why should I consider selling my brand on Tmall?
With a population of 1.4 billion, China will have expected commerce sales of $3 trillion in 2023, nearly three times the size of the next largest ecommerce market, the United States. Representing nearly 50% of the world’s total ecommerce sales in US$ terms, Chinese consumers have an increasing demand for international products and brands.
Selling your brand on Tmall can offer several strategic advantages, especially if you are looking to tap into the Chinese consumer market. Tmall is one of the largest B2C online retail platforms in China, providing access to a vast and diverse consumer base. This exposure can significantly expand your brand's reach.
What's involved in selling my brand on Tmall Global?
If you wish to sell products through Tmall Global flagship store, you need to be a registered business outside of mainland China, prove that you own the brand or you are authorized to represent it and have been a business owner for more than two years.
Setting up a brand on Tmall Global involves several steps, and it's important to follow the platform's guidelines and requirements.
- Confirm that your brand and products meet Tmall Global's eligibility criteria. Tmall Global is typically open to international brands with a proven track record and quality products.
- Provide the necessary information about your business, including company details and product categories.
- Prepare and submit the required documents, such as business registration certificates, trademark certificates, and other relevant paperwork.
- Choose the type of store that best suits your brand. Options include a Flagship Store, Specialty Store, Authorized Distributor Store, or Cross-Border Import (CBEC) Store.
- Submit your application to become a Tmall Global seller. Tmall will review your application, considering factors such as brand reputation, product quality, and adherence to their policies.
- Once approved, you'll need to sign agreements with Tmall Global, outlining the terms and conditions of your partnership. These agreements may cover issues such as fees, service levels, and intellectual property protection.
- Set up and customize your Tmall Global store. This includes adding your brand logo, banner, product listings, and other relevant information. Customize the storefront to align with your brand identity.
- Add your products to your store using the Tmall Seller Center. Provide detailed and accurate product information, including high-quality images, descriptions, and pricing.
- Configure payment options for your products, and decide on logistics and shipping details. Tmall Global provides options for cross-border shipping and integrated logistics services.
- Develop marketing strategies to promote your products on Tmall Global. This may include collaborations, promotions, and leveraging Tmall's marketing tools.
- Regularly manage your Tmall Global operations, monitor sales performance, and respond to customer inquiries promptly.
What is the difference between Tmall.com and Tmall Global?
Tmall.com and Tmall Global are two distinct platforms under the Alibaba Group, catering to different types of sellers and audiences.
Tmall.com is primarily for businesses targeting the Chinese domestic market. The platform is in Chinese, and most interactions are conducted in Mandarin. Sellers on Tmall.com are typically businesses with a legal entity registered in Mainland China.
Tmall Global is designed for international businesses looking to sell to Chinese consumers. The platform supports multiple languages, including English, making it more accessible to non- Chinese sellers. Sellers on Tmall Global can be businesses located outside of China. Tmall Global facilitates cross-border e-commerce, allowing international sellers to ship products directly to Chinese consumers.
In summary, while Tmall.com is focused on domestic Chinese businesses selling within China, Tmall Global is tailored for international businesses
seeking to enter the Chinese market.
What are the different store options for selling my brand on Tmall?
Tmall Global allows you to set up various kinds of stores:
Flagship Store
To open a flagship store on Tmall, the brand must have a trademark such as ® or TM. The store owner or brand representative must represent the brand. Before opening the store on Tmall, the store owner must have all the necessary authorization documents from the brand.
Flagship stores have higher standards for product listings, including more detailed descriptions, high-quality images, and videos. This helps businesses showcase their products in the best possible way and increase sales.
Direct Import
This type of store uses Tmall's overseas warehouse and logistics services to fulfill orders from Chinese consumers. This option is typically used by businesses that want to test the Chinese market or do not have a physical presence in China.
Tmall Global provides businesses with access to their overseas warehouses and logistics services, which allows businesses to store their inventory outside of China and fulfill orders directly to Chinese consumers. This can help businesses reduce their logistics costs and simplify their supply chain management.
Global Ministore
Focused on a specific product category or niche. This store type may have lower requirements for brand reputation and sales volume compared to a flagship store, making it a good option for smaller businesses or new brands.
Overseas Fulfilment
Allows businesses to sell products to Chinese consumers from outside of China. This store type is typically used by businesses that do not have a physical presence in China and want to sell directly to Chinese consumers.
Tmall Global provides businesses with cross-border logistics and clearance services, which allows businesses to ship their products directly to Chinese consumers from outside of China. This can help businesses reduce their logistics costs and simplify their supply chain management.
How much does it cost to set-up a store and sell my products on Tmall?
The cost associated with launching a Tmall store varies based on various factors, such as the store category, the size of your business, and any optional services or features you decide to employ.
Costs include:
- NextPlat fees to guide you through the store opening process and act on your behalf to sell your brand on Tmall
- A deposit payable to Tmall which varies depending on the type of store being opened.
- An annual platform fee
- Marketing and promotional costs
- Logistics and warehousing costs
- Legal and compliance fees e.g. import certifications if required
- Commission on sales generated through Tmall
NextPlat can guide you through the likely fees payable, depending on the store being opened and the type of products being sold.
How can I get started?
To start the process of selling on Tmall, get in touch with NextPlat using our 'Contact Us' page. Tell us about your products and include a link to your website.
You need to be a registered business outside of mainland China, prove that you own the brand or you are authorized to represent it and have been a business owner for more than two years.
We will review the information provided and contact you with 24 hours.