Podcasts about douyin

In this episode of The Negotiation, host Todd Embley welcomes back WPIC CEO Jacob Cooke to share insights around two pivotal developments for global consumer brands: the framework trade agreement between the US and China, and China's massive 618 shopping festival.Jacob breaks down the implications of the new framework agreement between the US and China, explains how tariff policies are shifting brand strategies, and highlights key recommendations for both U.S. and non-U.S. companies looking to grow in the APAC region. He also shares what's different about this year's 618 shopping event, how platforms like Taobao and Xiaohongshu are integrating content and commerce, and which product categories are set to win big.If you're a global brand navigating China's trade and consumer landscape, this is one episode you don't want to miss.Discussion Points:The latest updates from Jacob on the ground ahead of 618Key findings from WPIC's June 2025 strategic tariff reportWhat the US-China “London Deal” means for cross-border businessWhy 618 remains a crucial growth moment for international brandsHow platform integrations (e.g., the Red Cat Plan) are changing the gameGrowth sectors to watch: beauty, wellness, fashion, and baby careJacob's top 3 tips for brands to win during 618

Créée en mars 2025, la commission d'enquête sur les effets psychologiques de TikTok sur les mineurs explore l'impact de la plateforme sur la santé mentale des jeunes. Présidée par Arthur Delaporte et rapportée par Laure Miller, elle s'intéresse à la captation de l'attention, aux risques d'addiction, aux contenus dangereux, et compare TikTok à sa version chinoise Douyin. Objectif : proposer des mesures concrètes pour mieux protéger les mineurs.

In this episode of The Negotiation, host Todd Embley sits down with Kevin Xu, founder of the bilingual newsletter Interconnected, which offers sharp analysis on the intersection of technology, investing, and geopolitics between the United States and China. Kevin has become one of the most thoughtful and trusted voices interpreting Chinese tech trends.Together, they explore the evolving AI landscape in China, examining how players like DeepSeek and Alibaba are shaping the race, how export controls are impacting development, and why Kevin believes 2025 could be the year of the “AI RIF.” They also unpack China's open-source culture, cloud strategy, and what Western analysts continue to get wrong about China's innovation ecosystem.If you want to understand better the complex forces shaping tech and policy between the world's two largest economies, this is a must-listen.Listeners should also check out Kevin's newsletter Interconnected at interconnected.blog.

Xiaohongshu แพลตฟอร์มจีนที่กำลังแย่งคนรุ่นใหม่ ไปจาก Baidu และ Douyin | ลงทุนแมนจะเล่าให้ฟัง หากพูดถึง Google แห่งประเทศจีน หลายคนอาจจะนึกถึง Baidu ที่เกิดมาแล้วตั้งแต่ปี 2000 หรือ 25 ปีที่แล้ว แต่รู้หรือไม่ว่า ตอนนี้มีคู่แข่งหน้าใหม่อย่าง Xiaohongshu (อ่านว่า เสี่ยวหงซู) ที่วัยรุ่นจีนเริ่มหันมาใช้แทนแล้ว ยอดการค้นหาต่อวัน ในปี 2024 - Baidu มี 1 พันล้านครั้ง - Xiaohongshu มี 600 ล้านครั้ง จะเห็นได้ว่า Xiaohongshu ไล่ตามมาติด ๆ แล้ว Xiaohongshu คือใคร และการเติบโตที่รวดเร็วนี้ คือของจริง หรือเป็นเพียงกระแสชั่วคราว ? ลงทุนแมนจะเล่าให้ฟัง

In Part 2 of this special episode of The Negotiation, host Todd Embley continues the conversation with Dr. Chui Chui Tan, founder of Beyō Global. This episode focuses on practical examples from Chui Chui's work with global brands, including Spotify and Bumble, and what it really takes to launch successfully in new markets.Chui Chui unpacks how Spotify adapted its product strategy for dozens of international markets using deep local insight, and how Bumble rethought its approach to dating culture when expanding into APAC. She also shares practical advice on timing, market selection, and the right metrics for measuring success in global rollout.For brand owners, operators, and marketers looking to understand what separates global hits from cultural flops, this episode is packed with wisdom and real-world experience.Discussion Points (Part 2):How Chui Chui worked with Spotify to understand local behavior in 45+ countriesCultural and strategic lessons from Bumble's international expansionFrameworks for deciding when and where to grow globallyCommon mistakes companies make when entering new marketsMetrics and qualitative signals that show cultural adaptation is workingChui Chui's final advice for companies aiming to expand internationally with care and insight

In this episode of“ Graduation Gone Wild: Youth Identity and the New Rituals of Farewell, ” we explore the evolving nature of graduation rituals among contemporary youth, using unconventional graduation photos—such as students dressed as Ultraman, striking meme-inspired poses, or lying flat in robes—as a starting point. Initially framed as humorous or absurd, these photos are analyzed as profound expressions of cultural identity and emotional processing. Then, we discusshow traditional rituals, historically structured and institutionally controlled. However, modern youth are customizing rituals, shifting them from top-down, solemn traditions to bottom-up, peer-driven acts infused with creativity, humor, and personal authenticity. This transformation reflects a broader "media turn," where platforms like Weibo and Douyin serve as new stages for performative, shareable rituals designed for public interaction and peer validation. In the end, we found that these rituals reflect evolving human needs for expression and meaning in a rapidly changing world.And theyouth-driven rituals may influence broader societal transitions, highlighting the enduring human desire for connection and identity reaffirmation amid uncertainty.Enjoy this episode, dive into your graduation festivities and savor every moment!

In Part 1 of this two-part episode of The Negotiation, host Todd Embley welcomes Dr. Chui Chui Tan, founder of Beyō Global and a leading voice in international growth strategy. With over 16 years of experience helping brands like Spotify, Bumble, and Google expand into new markets, Dr. Tan shares how cultural insight—not just translation—can make or break global product launches.This conversation examines how Beyō Global assists companies in developing culturally intelligent expansion strategies that extend far beyond localization. Dr. Tan explains the distinction between localization and culturalization, and how a nuanced understanding of history, social behavior, and consumer psychology can set brands up for success.Tune in to hear her approach to assessing new markets, how global expansion into APAC differs from the West, and why many brands still get cultural strategy wrong. Stay tuned for Part 2 next week, where we dive into case studies with Spotify and Bumble, and explore common pitfalls in global expansion.Discussion Points (Part 1):What led Chui Chui to found Beyō Global, and how her UX background shaped her global mindsetThe company's mission and how it helps brands build culturally attuned expansion strategiesHow culturalization differs from localization—and why that matters in global growthThe strategic process Chui Chui uses when assessing a brand's readiness to expandThe importance of historical and behavioral insights in shaping market entry plansTips for approaching diverse APAC markets and avoiding Western-centric misstepsKey differences between growing in APAC vs Western markets and what brands need to adapt

In this special French-language edition of The Negotiation, we welcome Emmanuel Poupelle, WPIC's newly appointed Director of Growth, for a conversation hosted by Charles Lavoie, VP of Marketing at WPIC.Emmanuel brings years of on-the-ground experience in China's retail and e-commerce industry. He has now joined WPIC to help more European brands expand into the dynamic markets of China, Japan, South Korea, and Southeast Asia. In this episode, he shares his unique perspective on how the Asia-Pacific region has evolved, what makes it such a compelling growth opportunity, and why European brands—especially in categories like fashion, beauty, wellness, and home—are particularly well-positioned to thrive.Charles and Emmanuel also discuss the strategic thinking behind WPIC's expansion across Europe, the cultural and consumer dynamics shaping retail in APAC, and the practical steps European brands should take to succeed.

In this episode of The Negotiation, host Todd Embley is joined by Mark Kruger, a Senior Fellow at the Yicai Research Institute, Centre for International Governance Innovation, and the University of Alberta's China Institute. Formerly with the Bank of Canada for three decades, Mark now resides in Shanghai and writes regularly for Yicai Global, where he offers clear, data-driven analysis on China's economy. In today's episode, Todd and Mark dig into China's macroeconomic outlook in the wake of proposed new tariffs from Donald Trump and why Mark believes the country's 5% growth target remains achievable despite external pressure.The conversation explores Mark's recent columns, including “Is China's 5 Percent GDP Growth Credible?” He shares insights into the resilience of the Chinese economy, fiscal and monetary policy expectations, consumer confidence trends, and the ongoing property sector adjustment. Mark also weighs in on how Canada should navigate its own economic relationship with China during a time of rising global protectionism.Stay tuned for a sharp, timely conversation with one of the most thoughtful observers of China's economic evolution.Discussion Points:Why Trump's tariffs may not derail China's 5% GDP growth targetSigns of strength in China's Q1 economic dataThe resilience of Chinese consumer confidenceHow China's export profile is becoming more diversifiedPotential fiscal and monetary responses from Beijing to rising trade tensionsThe role of infrastructure investment and new manufacturing sectors in bolstering growthThe status and long-term management of China's property sectorCanada's strategic positioning in the context of US-China trade tensionsKey risks and tailwinds shaping China's medium-term economic outlookWhat foreign businesses should keep in mind when interpreting China's economic trajectory

À la veille des 100 jours du deuxième mandat de Donald Trump, focus sur une conséquence de sa guerre commerciale avec la Chine. Face aux droits de douane massifs imposés par Washington, Pékin organise la riposte pour soutenir ses entreprises, avec en première ligne ses champions du numérique. Décryptage. Depuis l'instauration de droits de douane de 145% par les États-Unis, les distributeurs chinois prennent des mesures pour soutenir leurs entreprises. La conséquence directe de cette guerre commerciale, ce sont des montagnes d'invendus qui s'accumulent dans les entrepôts chinois. Et pour cause : les États-Unis étaient, jusqu'à l'an passé, le premier acheteur de biens chinois, avec près de 500 milliards de dollars d'importations. Concrètement, près d'un produit sur cinq fabriqué en Chine était destiné au marché américain : vêtements, jouets, chaussures ou composants électroniques. Aujourd'hui, des milliers d'entreprises chinoises cherchent de nouveaux débouchés, notamment sur leur propre marché intérieur. Le ministère du Commerce chinois parle même de « choc », et appelle à transformer le marché intérieur en véritable bouée de sauvetage. À lire aussiLes petits producteurs chinois, grands perdants des mesures de Donald TrumpAlibaba et JD.COM en première ligne Pour mener cette stratégie, Pékin mise sur ses géants technologiques comme Alibaba et JD.COM. Ainsi, JD.COM a lancé un fonds de 200 milliards de yuans, soit environ 27 milliards de dollars, pour acheter directement les stocks des entreprises exportatrices. Le groupe identifie des fournisseurs stratégiques dont les produits sont ensuite mis en avant sur sa plate-forme pour séduire le marché local. Alibaba suit une stratégie similaire : le géant du e-commerce réserve une place de choix sur son site à 10 000 exportateurs et 100 000 produits, afin d'accroître leur visibilité. L'idée est claire : offrir aux entreprises touchées par la guerre commerciale américaine une meilleure exposition sur le marché chinois et favoriser ainsi l'absorption de leurs stocks. À lire aussiChine: le président Xi Jinping reçoit le gratin du secteur privé, dont Jack Ma, le fondateur d'AlibabaUne mobilisation qui dépasse le e-commerce Le soutien aux exportateurs ne se limite pas aux plates-formes en ligne. Les réseaux sociaux chinois comme WeChat, Douyin ou TikTok mettent également en place des programmes de promotion ciblée pour les aider. Même les supermarchés traditionnels s'adaptent : Walmart, filiale chinoise du géant américain, ouvre ses rayons aux entreprises locales frappées par les mesures américaines. Un objectif central guide cette mobilisation : éviter que toute l'économie chinoise ne soit plombée. La consommation intérieure reste fragile, affectée par la morosité économique et les incertitudes sur l'emploi. Si les entreprises venaient à fermer, cela entraînerait une vague de suppressions de postes. De plus, la concurrence féroce entre exportateurs pour séduire les mêmes clients pourrait déclencher une guerre des prix dévastatrice. Sans compter que les produits initialement destinés au marché américain ne sont pas toujours adaptés aux consommateurs chinois, ce qui entraîne des coûts logistiques supplémentaires et réduit les marges. Si l'aide des géants du numérique semble bienvenue, elle devra être soutenue sur la durée, car derrière cette crise, c'est toute la dépendance structurelle de la Chine aux exportations que Pékin tente, coûte que coûte, de corriger.À lire aussiLe reste du monde se prépare à une inondation de produits chinois bon marché

Tik Tok, the popular video-sharing site with more than 1.5 billion monthly active users worldwide, revolutionized the US app market, showing how social media could offer entertainment, short videos and shopping all in one place, say experts.专家表示，拥有全球超过15亿月活跃用户的热门短视频分享平台TikTok，彻底改变了美国应用市场格局，展示了社交媒体如何将娱乐、短视频与购物功能集于一身。"It certainly has brought something new to the US." Z, John Zhang, a professor of marketing at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania told China Daily.“它无疑给美国带来了新变化。”宾夕法尼亚大学沃顿商学院市场营销学教授张忠告诉《中国日报》。But despite the app's widespread success, it still faces uncertainty over a potential congressional ban signed by former US president Joe Biden in 2024, which states that ByteDance, its Chinese-based parent company, must divest the app and sell it to a US company or face a ban over national security concerns.尽管这款应用取得了广泛成功，但它仍面临一项不确定性：美国前总统乔·拜登在2024年签署的潜在国会禁令。该禁令规定，其中国母公司字节跳动必须剥离该应用并将其出售给一家美国公司，否则将因国家安全问题而面临禁用。In April, the Trump administration granted the app its second 75-day extension this year so that it could find a US buyer. The reprieve will expire in mid-June.今年4月，特朗普政府批准TikTok第二次75天延期，以便寻找美国买家。此次宽限期将于6月中旬到期。TikTok, available in 150 countries, was downloaded more than 875 million times in 2024. Its US revenue reached $10 billion in 2023, and American adults spend more than 53 minutes on it on average per day, two studies found.TikTok目前在150个国家或地区上线，2024年下载量超过8.75亿次。两项研究发现，其2023年美国营收达100亿美元，美国成年人平均每天使用时长超过53分钟。A spokesperson for ByteDance said in an April statement that it had "been in discussion with the US government regarding a potential solution for TikTok US. An agreement has not been executed. There are key matters to be resolved. Any agreement will be subject to approval under Chinese law."字节跳动一位发言人在4月份发表声明称，公司“一直在与美国政府讨论TikTok美国业务的潜在解决方案。目前尚未达成协议。仍有一些关键问题需要解决。任何协议均需根据中国法律获得批准。”TikTok CEO Shou Chew said in an April 22 video: "Rest assured we will do everything in our power to ensure our platform thrives as your online home…for years to come. There's tremendous value in this app, and if we close that, it will be a pity."TikTok首席执行官周受资在4月22日的一段视频中表示：“请放心，我们将竭尽全力确保我们的平台在未来数年内蓬勃发展，成为您的线上家园。这款应用拥有巨大的价值，如果被关闭将令人惋惜。”Launched in the US in 2018, TikTok quickly amassed more than 170 million American users, according to the Pew Research Center.据皮尤研究中心的数据，自2018年在美推出以来，TikTok迅速吸引了超过1.7亿美国用户Regardless of its future, it has changed social media and even spurred international competition.无论其未来如何，TikTok已经改变了社交媒体格局，并激发了国际竞争。Instagram, the picture-sharing site, owned by Facebook parent Meta, started its video platform Reels in 2020 in 50 countries, including the US, to compete with TikTok.Facebook母公司Meta旗下的图片分享网站Instagram于2020年在包括美国在内的50个国家或地区推出了其视频平台Reels，以与TikTok竞争。In April, Instagram launched its standalone "Edits Video" creation app. The platform will allow creators to shoot and edit video similar to TikTok or CapCut.今年4月，Instagram推出了独立的“Edits Video”创作应用。该平台将允许创作者拍摄和编辑类似于TikTok或CapCut的视频。"We think it's our job to create the most compelling creative tools for those of you who make videos," Adam Mosseri, head of Instagram, said in a Reels video statement in January.“我们认为，为视频创作者打造最有吸引力的创作工具，是我们的职责，”Instagram负责人亚当·莫塞里在1月份的Reels视频声明中表示。Another US offering that rivals the Chinese app is YouTube's Shorts, a platform to create and share short-form videos. Other Chinese-owned apps, such as RedNote and Lemon8, the latter owned by ByteDance—also are vying for attention over TikTok.另一个与这款中国应用竞争的美国产品是YouTube的Shorts，这是一个制作和分享短视频的平台。其他中国本土应用也在争夺用户注意力，例如RedNote和 字节跳动拥有的Lemon8。However, one of the most unique aspects of TikTok is that it works alongside businesses both locally and internationally to sell goods to customers on the app. That is something that was fairly unusual to US digital audiences beforehand.然而，TikTok最独特之处在于，它能在本地及国际范围内与商家合作，通过该应用向客户销售商品。这对于此前在美国数字平台上的受众来说相当罕见。It's estimated that there are more than 7 million US businesses on TikTok, which helped it support over $24 billion in gross domestic product and 224,000 American jobs, according to a report by Oxford Economics.据牛津经济研究院的报告估计，TikTok上有超过700万家美国企业，这帮助TikTok支撑了超过240亿美元的国内生产总值和22.4万个美国就业岗位。Felicia Jackson, owner of CPR Wrap, a business that helps people as they perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation, said that she made more than $300,000 in just two days thanks to the app.菲利西亚·杰克逊是CPR Wrap的老板，该公司致力于帮助人们进行心肺复苏，她说，得益于TikTok，她在短短两天内赚取了超过30万美元。The method of entertaining people and encouraging them to shop seamlessly in an app has been successful for Douyin, the domestic Chinese version of ByteDance's TikTok and JD, a Chinese e-commerce company owned by Tencent, with revenues of more than $152 billion in 2023.这种在娱乐中无缝推动购物的模式，在字节跳动旗下的国内版抖音，以及腾讯控股的电商公司京东上已被证明非常成功，京东2023年收入超过1520亿美元。Professor George S. Yip, emeritus professor, Imperial College London, and distinguished visiting professor at Northeastern University in Boston, said that TikTok has gained international popularity by following apps like Douyin.伦敦帝国理工学院名誉教授、波士顿东北大学杰出客座教授叶锦华表示，TikTok通过效仿抖音等应用程序获得了国际知名度。"The Chinese are very good at all-in-one apps, and [TikTok is] simply following that practice in the US," Yip told China Daily.叶锦华告诉《中国日报》：“中国人非常擅长开发一体化应用程序，而TikTok只是把这一实践带到了美国。”Smaller content creators and influencers who review or market merchandise from the TikTok shop also are making money and receiving commissions on goods sold.在TikTok商店评论或营销商品的小型内容创作者和影响者也在赚钱，并从销售的商品中获得佣金。"A lot of people would get hurt [if TikTok closes]," Zhang said. "There's no question, because there's a lot of influencers on TikTok, and they're doing really well, and they make a lot of money out of it."“如果TikTok关闭，很多人会受到影响，” 张忠教授说，“毫无疑问，因为TikTok上有很多网红，他们做得非常好，也从中赚了很多钱。”As TikTok continues to seek a US buyer to appease Washington, online retail giant Amazon was said to have thrown its hat in the ring, submitting a bid to the White House to buy it.随着TikTok继续寻找美国买家以安抚美国方面，有消息称电商巨头亚马逊已经加入了竞争，向白宫提交了收购申请。In an effort to update its safety features, Adam Presser, head of Operations and Trust and Safety at TikTok, described its latest innovation "Footnotes."为进一步提升安全性，TikTok运营和信任与安全部门主管亚当·普雷瑟介绍了其最新的创新功能“脚注”。"It will add to our suite of measures that help people understand the reliability of content and access authoritative sources, including our content labels, search banners, our fact-checking program, and more," Presser said in a statement.普雷瑟在一份声明中表示：“它将增强我们的一系列措施，帮助人们了解内容的可靠性并访问权威来源，这些措施包括我们的内容标签、搜索横幅、事实核查程序等等。”revolutionize/ˌrevəˈluːʃənaɪz/v.彻底改革，彻底改变cardiopulmonary resuscitation心肺复苏术seamlessly/ˈsiːmləsli/adv.无缝地，顺畅地fact-checking事实核查，信息查证

In Part 2 of our conversation with Rui Ma on The Negotiation podcast, we explore the evolving consumer tech and innovation landscape in China beyond AI. Rui shares her analysis on the rise of local life services, humanoid robotics, and China's dominance in electric vehicles—highlighting the factors propelling growth and the remaining roadblocks.We also zoom out to explore the broader dynamics between the U.S. and China's tech ecosystems. Rui discusses rising tensions, how media and policy shape U.S. perceptions of Chinese tech, and whether meaningful collaboration is still possible.Finally, Rui reflects on the future of China tech and whether she still believes—as she's said before—that “the next China is China.” Listen for sharp insights, fresh perspectives, and a grounded look at where things might be headed.Discussion Points:The transformation of China's consumer tech and local life services landscapeChina's rise in the EV market and what's fueling itThe state of humanoid robotics in China vs. the U.S.U.S. public and governmental attitudes toward Chinese techHow geopolitical tensions are creating siloed ecosystemsThe role of Western media in shaping perceptions of Chinese innovationStrategies for fostering cooperation and countering biasRui's long-term outlook for China's tech sector

A Sydney patisserie is struggling to keep up with demand after going viral on Chinese social media. Here’s how it happened. For more, head to news.com.auSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Laura López, de "Actual Comunicación Amodiño", empresa que se adica á xestión da comunicación dixital. Hoxe falamos dos usuarios en redes sociais e cambios na tendencia. 🔊"Segundo o informe We Are Social e Melwater, en febreiro de 2025 eramos máis de 5.200 millóns de usuarios activos a nivel global en redes sociais". 🔊"Facebook segue a ser a rede social máis empregada, con 3.070 millóns de usuarios". 🔊"Aínda que máis de un 40% dos usuarios da rede están presentes en X, é a cuarta rede social que máis se abandona". 📢Se sentimos que o día a día vai a un ritmo vertixinoso, no que se refire a cambios no ecosistema dixital, esta velocidade aínda é maior. Fai uns anos aínda tiñamos conta activa en Tuenti e agora xa hai usuarios que non saben que foi iso. Logo diciamos que Facebook estaba morto e que o formato de vídeo vertical breve era o rei das plataformas sociais. Pois ben, hoxe vimos a desmentir algunhas das -cremos- crenzas máis estendidas relacionadas coas plataformas dixitais e descubrir cales son as máis empregadas neste momento. ✅Un pequeno repaso dos datos a nivel mundial Segundo o informe We Are Social e Melwater, en febreiro de 2025 eramos máis de 5.200 -o que representa un 63,9% da poboación mundial- millóns de usuarios activos a nivel global en redes sociais. Desta cifra, 39,7 millóns eran españois. Por outra banda, a media de uso diario, a pesar de seguir sendo moi elevado, vén de reducirse en dous minutos, e sitúase agora en 2 horas e 21 minutos. O que si segue a subir é a media de aplicacións, que se sitúa en 6,8 por usuario. ✅Facebook segue sendo o rei Sentíndoo moito para eses detractores de Facebook, a primeira rede social de Zuckerberg segue a ser a rede social máis empregada, con 3.070 millóns de usuarios. O que si decrece é o interese por seguir páxinas das marcas en Facebook pero, aínda así, as máis exitosas superan os 150 millóns de seguidores (neste caso, Cristiano Ronaldo con 170 millóns, Samsung con 162 millóns e Facebook App con 150 millóns). ✅O retorno de YouTube Nos últimos meses, Youtube está en boca de todos. E é que plataformas como IPMark xa aseguran que a plataforma de vídeo volve a gañar relevancia coa aposta dos creadores de contido por este medio. Dende novos creadores de contido ata outros máis consolidados coo Ibai que aseguran que a comunidade en YouTube é moi optimista e os influencers pódense mostrar a si mesmos sen a presión de ter que publicar diariamente como ocurre noutras redes como Twitch. En definitiva, segundo datos do mes de febreiro, YouTube é actualmente a segunda rede social máis empregada, con 2.530 millóns de usuarios e un billón de horas de vídeo diarias. E, como curiosidade, os tres vídeos musicais máis vistos son Baby Shark, Despacito e Johny Johny Yes Papa. ✅Instagram e os talking carousels Instagram segue no podio con 2.000 millóns de usuarios activos. Sinálase que esta plataforma segue a medrar e non só consigue fidelizar novos usuarios, senón que tamén atrapa novos creadores de contido. Ademais, xunto con Facebook, é o medio que máis tráfico de referencias xenera desde redes coais. Por outra banda, se ben segue a medrar en usuarios, tamén segue a innovar e cambiar realizar pequenas modificacións nos seus formatos. Nos últimos meses hai un novo formato que algúns creadores de contido o definen como “o formato máis viral 2025”, os talking carousels. E en que consisten? Están baseados na mesma dinámica que un reel e aproveitan o tirón que están tendo agora mesmo os carruseis. Isto é, teñen a mesma narrativa que un reel falado pero en formato carrusel, de maneira que o usuario pode escoller o ritmo ao que consome o contido e a mensaxe, algo esencial que está a facer que os carruseis gañen cada vez máis importancia. ✅TikTok TikTok é a cuarta rede social máis empregada, con 1.590 millóns de usuarios. Ademais,, ten unha das medias de engagement rate máis altas para contas de empresa: 3,70% (considérase unha cifra moi boa a partir do 3%). Esta plataforma posiciónase como especialmente importante (e un reto tamén) para as empresas, xa que coa chegada de TikTok Shop será especialmente importante para Ecommerce. ✅E que pasa con X (Twitter)? Aínda que máis de un 40% dos usuarios da rede están presentes en X, é a cuarta rede social que máis se abandona. E é que para atopala no ranking de redes sociais máis empregadas hai que pasar primeiro por Facebook, YouTube, Instagram, WhatsApp, TikTok, WeChat, Telegram, Messenger, Snapchat, Douyin (o TikTok chinés), Kuaishou (plataforma chinesa de vídeos curtos e transmisións en vivo), Reddit e Weibo (plataforma chinesa similar a Twitter). E por que está a xente abandonando X? Polo seu dono, Elon Musk. Entre outras cousas, durante a investidura de Trump, o propietario de X realizou un xesto que foi interpretado por moitos como un saúdo nazi, polo que moitas personalidades e usuarios decidíronse a pechar as súas contas como sinal de protesta. Outro motivo, quizais aínda máis importante, é a percepción de que X promove contidos alarmantes, incluíndo teorías de conspiración de extrema dereita ou racismo. É dicir, estase criticando por promover a desinformación e o odio e, de feito, medios como The Guardian teñen cerrado as súas contas oficiais, calificando a plataforma de tóxica. Porén, outros medios como Maldita precisamente para combater esta desinformación, néganse a abandonar a plataforma, para non deixar que “os desinformadores gañen a batalla” e, máis aínda, tendo en conta que os usuarios cada vez máis infórmanse en redes sociais. ❓Pregunta próxima semana: que redes alternativas ás máis populares empregades? 👉Máis Información ACTUAL COMUNICACIÓN Amodiño: ✔️Páxina Web: https://actualizadoscomunicacion.com/ ✔️Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/actualizadoscomunicacion ✔️Twitter: https://twitter.com/actualizadoscom ✔️Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/actualizados_comunicacion/ 🎙️"SUSCRÍBETE" ao podcast.👍 👉MÁIS ENTREVISTAS: https://www.ivoox.com/podcast-salta-da-cama_sq_f1323089_1.html 👉Máis Información e outros contidos: ✔️Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PabloChichas ✔️Twitter: https://twitter.com/pablochichas ✔️Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pablochichas/ ✔️Clubhouse: @pablochichas ✔️Twich: https://www.twitch.tv/pablochichas

Taiwan's government recently deported Liu Zhenya, a Chinese national who goes by “Yaya in Taiwan” on social media. It's after Liu posted comments on Douyin — the Chinese version of TikTok — that Taiwan's government described as threats to national security. Since then Taiwan has deported two other “mainland wives” (Chinese citizens with Taiwanese husbands) over similar concerns about their social media posts. It's also investigating several others. Benny Lu from BBC Chinese explains why Taiwan's government is concerned about what it calls “Chinese propaganda.” He also discusses how people in China and Taiwan have reacted to the deportations.Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk WhatsApp: +44 0330 12 33 22 6 Presenter: Hannah Gelbart Producers: William Lee Adams and Josh Jenkins Editor: Verity Wilde

In this episode of The Negotiation, we're joined once again by Jacob Cooke, Co-founder and CEO of WPIC Marketing + Technologies. Jacob walks us through the key insights from WPIC's latest data report profiling the fastest-growing consumer segments in China's e-commerce market. Drawing from GMV data across Tmall, JD.com, and Douyin, the report reveals a story of recovery, consumer optimism, and evolving channel strategies.Jacob kicks off with an overview of China's current consumption environment, highlighting a return of consumer confidence fueled by government stimulus, higher disposable incomes, and a willingness to spend. He then breaks down performance across platforms, noting the rapid rise of Douyin and Xiaohongshu, and explaining how brands should adapt to a more fragmented, omnichannel landscape.We then dive into category-specific insights, from the booming beauty and fashion sectors to the rise of experiential consumption, pet care premiumization, and the ongoing expansion of health and wellness products. Jacob also discusses growth in outdoor and active lifestyle categories, with impressive gains in cycling, hiking, and ski gear.Stay tuned for an insight-packed discussion that challenges the doom-and-gloom narrative and positions China as a dynamic and essential market for global brands.Discussion PointsWhy consumer confidence is rebounding in China—and what that means for international brandsPlatform performance: Tmall and JD's staying power vs. Douyin's rise in social commerceXiaohongshu's triple-digit growth trajectory and strategic role for brand discoveryBeauty and fashion trends: science-backed skincare, expressive makeup, men's groomingThe suitcase boom: post-pandemic travel + lifestyle trends = experiential consumptionWhat's fueling China's demand for fish oil, vitamin B, and dietary fiberOutdoor gear goes mainstream: cycling, skiing, hiking, and the crossover with fashionPremiumization in pet care: what's behind the $11.2B marketRising spend in the mother and baby category despite falling birth ratesKey takeaways for brands: adopt an omnichannel, data-driven strategy for growth

In this episode of The Negotiation podcast, host Todd Embley is joined by Rui Ma, a distinguished expert with nearly two decades of experience working in technology and finance in the U.S. and China. Rui provides deep insights into the current landscape of AI, focusing particularly on the competitive dynamics between the U.S. and China. She discusses how geopolitical tensions and export controls have impacted China's AI industry and highlights the resilience and adaptability of Chinese AI firms.Rui shares detailed perspectives on the state of open-source collaboration in China's AI ecosystem compared to the U.S., and explains the significance of emerging players such as DeepSeek. Additionally, she explores the latest AI advancements from major tech giants like Ant Group and Baidu, as well as the rise of innovative startups like Manus. The conversation also touches on practical AI applications within China, guided by Alibaba's strategy of reducing costs and maximizing use cases. Rui concludes with her thoughts on the future of AI in China, offering an insightful outlook on opportunities and challenges ahead.Listeners should stay tuned for Part 2, where Rui will discuss additional key trends shaping the broader tech landscape in China.Discussion Points:·       Comparing strengths and weaknesses in the U.S.-China AI race·       Impact of U.S. export controls on China's AI sector·       Open-source collaboration differences between China and the U.S.·       DeepSeek's rise and its impact on China's AI landscape·       Recent AI advancements from Ant Group and Baidu·       Emerging key players in China's AI industry, including Manus·       AI application trends in China driven by cost reduction and practical utility·       Rui Ma's outlook on China's AI future

主播：Flora (中国) + 梅莉 (法国) 片头音乐：阳光彩虹小白马 片尾音乐：Kung Fu FightingNowadays, internet celebrities (网红) are very common. 但是今天介绍给大家的是最近火到出圈的——IShowSpeed！也就是网友口中的“甲亢哥”！01. Who is “甲亢哥” ? 他是谁？Speed (“甲亢哥”网名) is a 20-year-old YouTuber from the U.S., who went absolutely viral (走红) during his recent trip to China. His videos from this trip got millions of views (浏览量)—and not just on YouTube, but also reposted (转发) across Chinese social platforms like Bilibili, Xiaohongshu, and Douyin! One of his livestreams (直播) from China hit three million views, 有一场直播甚至长达6个小时！People call him “甲亢哥” because he is extremely energetic (活力满满) in front of the camera, always jumping around and shouting. Netizens gave him this nickname as a playful joke (玩笑话) , but it also carries a sense of affection (喜爱). The literal meaning of “甲亢哥” is hyperthyroidism.Basically, hyper energy + chaotic charm =甲亢哥hyperthyroidism 甲状腺功能亢进症02. Speed's China Tour “甲亢哥”的中国行Speed has been traveling for a while—Japan, Korea, Portugal (葡萄牙)—but his China trip hits different (有所不同). He wore a big floral padded jacket (东北大花袄), tried stinky tofu (臭豆腐), danced in public squares (跳广场舞) with kids, walked the streets of Chengdu, got mobbed (围住) by fans...He wasn't just a tourist snapping pics (打卡拍照的游客). 他真的不是“走马观花”的那种游客，而是深入体验了中国文化。当尝试臭豆腐时，他说“This smells horrible... but tastes amazing (闻起来臭，吃起来香) !”。Even though he's an international star, in China, he was completely natural—zero “celebrity distance.” (完全没有名人的那种“距离感”) 比如他会在街头吃路边摊、跟路人跳广场舞，还会用超搞笑的方式学中文。People find him really down to earth and relatable (接地气又让人有共鸣).Netizens say he's “crazy but real (疯得很真实)”. You feel like he's that hilarious (搞笑的) friend everyone has.And the way he genuinely explored China made a lot of people think: “Maybe we should be more open to other cultures, too.”03. Iconic Moments from the Comment Section 评论区名场面他的评论区有很多人留言。There is a funny comment from his kung fu video, “2% kung fu, 95% bald, 3% screaming”. 意思是他的主要“成分”是秃头和吼叫，还有一点点功夫（视频里他戴了一个光头套——bald cap）。And here's another really sweet comment from YouTube:“China stream has been by far the best stream ever for IShowSpeed. The people. The authenticity (真实). The vibe (氛围). It was all right. Never judge a book by its cover (封面). He went up against a lot of pressure not to go to China, but he did—and it turned out amazing.”“Organic interactions will always trump forced ones （自然的互动总是胜过被迫的）.”He's sincere—you can feel his genuine curiosity and reactions (真正的好奇心和互动). 04. Embassy Notices Speed's Viral Fame! “甲亢哥”火爆出圈，惊动大使馆！The Chinese Embassy in the U.S. posted about IShowSpeed's trip on X (原推特). IShowSpeed's China trip really showed people a different side of China—warm, real, full of life (温暖、真实、充满活力).IShowSpeed, an American YouTuber, has garnered (获得) immense (巨大的) attention for his travel experiences in China. He not only visited multiple cities but also immersed himself in the local culture (沉浸式体验当地文化).欢迎在评论区告诉我们： Have you watched Speed's China streams? What was your favorite part? 你有没有看过Speed的中国直播，最喜欢哪一段呢？

Justin Downes returns to The Negotiation podcast to reflect on the recently concluded ski season in China and to discuss his new role in Hokkaido, Japan. With a career dedicated to advancing winter sports in Asia, Justin has been instrumental in the infrastructural development of ski resorts in China, contributing significantly to the country's readiness for the 2022 Winter Olympics. In this episode, Justin provides an overview of the performance of the skiing season in China, talks about the world's largest indoor skiing resort in Shanghai, and compares the ski markets of China and Japan.Discussion Points:Overview of Axis Leisure Management and its impact on skiing in China.Performance insights from the recent ski season in China.Details on the world's largest indoor skiing resort in Shanghai and its significance in the growth of the industry.The influence of the Asian Winter Games on the popularization of winter sports in China and other Asian countries.Assessment of China as a mature or emerging skiing market.Comparisons between the skiing industries in China and Japan, highlighting unique aspects and challenges in both markets.

From lotus root dishes to fiery hotpot, the animated blockbusterNe Zha 2 has ignited nationwide culinary trends, turning meals inspired by the film into social media sensations.从藕菜到火辣辣的火锅，动画大片《哪吒2》点燃了全国范围内的烹饪潮流，以电影为灵感的美食也成为了社交媒体上的热点。The feature has surpassed Avengers: Infinity War to become the sixth highest-grossing movie of all time worldwide, according to the Lighthouse Professional Edition, a box office data provider owned by Alibaba.根据阿里巴巴旗下票房数据提供商灯塔专业版(Lighthouse Professional Edition)的数据，这部动画电影已经超过《复仇者联盟3:无限战争》，成为全球有史以来票房第六高的电影。In the movie, the body of Ne Zha, a mythical demon child, is reborn from lotus root starch. Off-screen, sales of lotus root starch, lotus root soup and other dishes featuring the plant have surged, with restaurants embracing the ingredient in new and inventive ways.在这部电影中，神话中的魔童哪吒的身体是用莲藕重生的。银幕外，藕粉、藕汤和其他以这种植物为特色的菜肴的销量激增，餐馆以新的、创造性的方式接纳了这种食材。Meanwhile, a scene featuring the Octopus General — who speaks in a Tianjin dialect — being roasted in the furnace has turned the local specialty of stir-fried squid tentacles into a viral hit.与此同时，一个讲天津方言的章鱼将军在炉子里被烤的场景，使当地的特色菜炒鱿鱼足火了。Across the country, restaurants are rolling out Ne Zha-themed drinks, dishes and set meals, blending cinematic fantasy with real-world flavors.全国各地的餐馆都在推出哪吒主题的饮料、菜肴和套餐，将电影中的幻想与现实世界的味道融合在一起。One of the most memorable aspects ofNe Zha 2 is Taiyi Zhenren's distinctive Sichuan-accented Mandarin. This linguistic touch has unexpectedly turned hotpot — a Sichuan province culinary staple — into a marketing success, with restaurants seizing the opportunity to attract customers.《哪吒2》最令人难忘的一点是太乙真人的四川口音。这种语言的接触出人意料地使火锅——四川的一种美食——成为一种营销上的成功，餐馆抓住机会吸引顾客。In Sichuan's Yibin, Zha Hotpot eatery — already designed with Ne Zha-themed decor — has become a hot spot for fans eager to snap photos with installations inspired by the character's iconic huntianling (red armillary sash) and fenghuolun (wind-fire wheels).在四川宜宾，一家以哪吒主题为装饰的哪吒火锅店，已经成为粉丝们争相拍照的热点，店内的装置灵感来自哪吒标志性的“混天绫”和“风火轮”。The restaurant has also introduced a Ne Zha-inspired menu featuring meatballs, lotus root starch and seafood, all of which have quickly become favorites.这家餐厅还推出了受哪吒启发的菜单，包括肉丸、藕粉和海鲜，所有这些都迅速成为人们的最爱。In Sichuan's Chengdu, Feng Xiao Zhang Hotpot launched a promotional campaign where diners who posted a video wishing the restaurant success on social media could win aNe Zha 2 movie ticket if their post received over 30 likes.在四川成都，冯校长火锅推出了一项促销活动，食客只要在社交媒体上发布祝福该餐厅成功的视频，并获得30个点赞，就能赢得一张《哪吒闹海2》的电影票。"I love a good hotpot, but when it's both delicious and fun, that's even better," said Zhang Xuan, a tourist from Xi'an, Shaanxi province.“我喜欢好吃的火锅，但如果火锅既美味又有趣，那就更好了，”来自陕西西安的游客张轩说。Meanwhile, the hotpot chain Banu markedNe Zha 2 surpassing 10 billion yuan ($1.38 billion) at the box office by introducing the Honghu lotus root dish across its locations nationwide.与此同时，火锅连锁店巴努在全国各地推出了洪湖莲藕，来纪念《哪吒2》的票房突破了100亿元人民币(13.8亿美元)。The dish was an instant success, with strong sales from the moment it launched, according to staff.据工作人员介绍，这道菜一经推出就大获成功，销量强劲。In Sanya, Hainan province, Cinker Pictures Mega has taken the trend a step further by offering a hotpot-and-movie experience, allowing guests to enjoy a meal while watchingNe Zha 2 in a special screening room.在海南三亚，Cinker Pictures Mega将这一趋势更进一步，提供火锅和电影的体验，让客人在特殊的放映室里一边吃饭一边看《哪吒2》。"The hotpot wasn't particularly outstanding, but the ingredients were fresh," wrote a Dianping user, Yuxiaoman. "I cried just as much during my second watch — such a great film! Finally got to experience eating hotpot while watching a movie — absolutely amazing!"“火锅味道不出彩，但食材很新鲜，”大众点评网用户于晓曼写道。“我第二次看的时候还是哭了——这么棒的一部电影!终于可以一边看电影一边吃火锅了，太棒了!”Coffee shops and dessert cafes are also embracing the Ne Zha phenomenon. In Dalian, Liaoning province, JY & Sweetime has launched Ne Zha-themed cakes and coffee, featuring an illustration of the character and the motto, "My fate is determined by me, not by the heavens."咖啡店和甜品店也在追捧哪吒现象。在辽宁省大连市，JY & Sweetime推出了哪吒主题的蛋糕和咖啡，上面印有哪吒的形象和座右铭:“我命由我不由天"The Oreo cream filling was decent, but the design was incredible — super fitting for the theme!" wrote a Dianping user named "Woconglaimeiheguoshui".一位名叫“我从来没喝过水”的大众点评用户写道：“奥利奥奶油馅还可以，但设计太不可思议了--超级符合主题！”。Meanwhile, Cotti Coffee has announced an official collaboration withNe Zha 2, rolling out a new product series on March 17, complete with themed packaging and limited-edition merchandise.”与此同时，库迪咖啡宣布与《哪吒2》正式合作，于3月17日推出新系列产品，包括主题包装和限量版商品。Pop culture boost流行文化助推AsNe Zha 2 continues to attract large audiences, its impact on the food and beverage industry highlights how pop culture is reshaping consumer trends — one meal at a time.随着《哪吒2》继续吸引大批观众，它对餐饮行业的影响凸显了流行文化如何重塑消费趋势——一餐一景。"The film has not only gone viral but has also driven the growth of the entire lotus root supply chain," said Zhao Jinqiao, a 42-year-old restaurant industry researcher.42岁的餐饮业研究员赵金桥表示:“这部电影不仅火了，还推动了整个藕供应链的增长。”Zhao said it is not the first time film and television have driven food trends. In recent years, popular productions have frequently sparked demand for regional delicacies.赵说，这不是电影和电视第一次推动饮食潮流。近年来，受欢迎的影视作品经常引发对地方美食的需求。The 2019 TV dramaThe Longest Day in Chang'an boosted interest in fire crystal persimmons and water basin lamb from China's northwest. In 2022, the hit seriesA Dream of Splendor brought Song Dynasty (960-1279) tea culture into the spotlight, leading tea brands to introduce themed drinks that became consumer favorites. Similarly, animated films and TV shows have increasingly collaborated with tea and coffee brands to launch limited-edition beverages.2019年，电视剧《长安十二时辰》提高了人们对中国西北地区火晶柿子和水盆羊肉的兴趣。2022年，热播剧《梦华录》将宋代（960-1279年）茶文化推向聚光灯下，促使茶叶品牌推出主题饮品，成为消费者的最爱。同样，动画电影和电视节目也越来越多地与茶叶和咖啡品牌合作，推出限量版饮品。Behind this phenomenon, Zhao sees two key forces at play.在这一现象背后，赵看到了两股关键力量在起作用。First, restaurants are becoming more adept at leveraging pop culture to attract consumers and convert online buzz into sales. "With fierce competition in the industry, businesses are focusing on product innovation rather than price wars. They are enhancing their offerings with cultural, experiential, and emotional value," Zhao said.首先，餐厅越来越善于利用流行文化来吸引消费者，并将网上的热词转化为销售额。“随着行业竞争的激烈，企业正专注于产品创新，而不是价格战。他们正在用文化、体验和情感价值来提升他们的产品，”赵说。"Over the past few years, restaurant operators have learned how to integrate entertainment and youth culture into their strategies to draw traffic," he added.他补充说:“在过去的几年里，餐馆经营者已经学会了如何将娱乐和青年文化融入到他们的策略中来吸引客流量。”Second, consumer expectations for dining experiences have evolved. "People no longer just eat to satisfy hunger or pursue healthy choices. They now seek emotional connections through their dining experiences," Zhao said.其次，消费者对就餐体验的期望也在发生变化。“人们不再只是为了充饥或追求健康的选择而吃饭。他们现在通过就餐体验寻找情感联系。”赵说。WhileNe Zha2 has sparked a wave of themed offerings, Zhao believes the trend is also rooted in the character's deep cultural significance.虽然《哪吒2》引发了一波主题产品的热潮，但赵认为，这一趋势也植根于该角色深厚的文化意义。However, he cautioned businesses to be mindful of intellectual property concerns when using Ne Zha's image for promotions, warning of potential legal risks. He also noted that Ne Zha, as a traditional Chinese figure, has multiple representations beyond the one depicted inNe Zha 2.然而，他提醒企业在使用哪吒的形象进行宣传时要注意知识产权问题，并警告潜在的法律风险。他还指出，哪吒作为中国传统人物，除了《哪吒2》中所描绘的形象外，还有多种表现形式。For restaurant owners looking to capitalize on the trend, Zhao stressed the importance of both speed and long-term vision. "To seizeNe Zha 2's momentum, businesses must react quickly.对于希望利用这一趋势的餐馆老板来说，赵强调了速度和长远眼光的重要性。“为了抓住《哪吒2》的势头，企业必须迅速做出反应。But beyond short-term gains, they should also consider how to retain customers. The goal is not just to draw diners in with a trendy product, but to build lasting consumer habits," he said.但除了短期收益，他们还应该考虑如何留住客户。我们的目标不仅仅是用时髦的产品吸引食客，而是要养成持久的消费习惯。”Root cause of frenzy热潮的根本原因Lotus root has emerged as one of the biggest winners in the food industry boom sparked byNe Zha 2.在《哪吒2》引发的食品行业热潮中，藕已经成为最大的赢家之一。The humble ingredient, central to the film's storyline, has seen a surge in demand, driving remarkable growth across the food and e-commerce sectors.作为电影故事情节的核心，这种不起眼的食材需求激增，推动了食品和电商行业的显著增长。According to data from the short video-sharing platform Douyin, searches for "lotus root starch" have surged by over 200 percent year-on-year since the film's release on Jan 29, with interest continuing to climb.根据短视频分享平台抖音的数据，自1月29日该片上映以来，“藕粉”的搜索量同比飙升了200%以上，而且兴趣还在继续攀升。Online delivery platform Eleme has reported a 330 percent spike in related searches.在线外卖平台“饿了么”的相关搜索量飙升了330%。China Post's Hubei branch reported that between Jan 29 and Feb 11, approximately 170,000 packages of lotus root starch and lotus root stems were shipped from the province — 1.7 fold more than the same period last year.据中国邮政湖北分公司报道，在1月29日至2月11日期间，约有17万包藕淀粉和藕茎从该省运出，是去年同期的1.7倍。The impact is even more pronounced in Honghu, a major lotus root production hub in Hubei province.在湖北主要的莲藕生产中心洪湖，这种影响更为明显。Zhang Xianzhong, head of the Honghu Lotus Root Industry Development Center, said from Jan 29 to Feb 23, the industry's total sales revenue surpassed 582 million yuan, marking a 51 percent year-on-year increase.洪湖藕产业发展中心主任张献忠表示，从1月29日到2月23日，藕产业总销售收入超过5.82亿元，同比增长51%。Fresh lotus root sales alone reached 18,700 metric tons, while processed products like lotus root starch, lotus root stems, and lotus root soup also saw significant gains.仅新鲜藕的销量就达到1.87万吨，而藕淀粉、藕茎和藕汤等加工产品也取得了显著增长。"Fresh lotus root is selling out daily, over 200 tons of lotus root starch have already been snapped up, and e-commerce orders have risen 1.5 fold compared with last year," Zhang said.“新鲜莲藕每天都销售一空，200多吨莲藕淀粉已被抢购一空，电商订单比去年增加了1.5倍。At the Orsun century city mall branch in Wuhan, Hubei, of Laoxiangji fast food chain, takeout orders have surged during dinner hours with staff packing container after container of lotus root chicken soup.在湖北武汉的老乡鸡快餐连锁店奥森世纪城分店，晚餐时段的外卖订单激增，店员们将一箱又一箱的莲藕鸡汤打包。"Since the Spring Festival, sales of our lotus root chicken soup have risen about 30 percent compared with pre-holiday levels," said store manager Yuan Fangfang.店长袁芳芳说：“春节以来，我们莲藕鸡汤的销量比节前增长了约30%。”Laoxiangji's signature old hen soup, made with mineral water and stewed chicken, has long been a customer favorite.老乡鸡的招牌老母鸡汤，用矿泉水和焖鸡熬制而成，一直深受顾客的喜爱。But in Hubei, where lotus root is a staple, diners have frequently asked if the restaurant offers a lotus root version. In response to the demand, Laoxiangji introduced lotus root chicken soup in its Hubei outlets in September 2024.但在以莲藕为主食的湖北，经常有食客询问餐厅是否提供莲藕版本。为满足这一需求，老乡记于2024年9月在湖北分店推出了莲藕鸡汤。"The response has been overwhelming — nearly half of our soup orders are now for the lotus root version," Yuan said.袁说：“反响非常热烈--现在我们近一半的汤订单都是莲藕版的。”She noted that September and October, when lotus roots are at their softest and most flavorful, is the peak season for the dish. "For us in Hubei, drinking lotus root soup is a tradition. Growing up, the aroma of lotus root soup filled the alleys during autumn and winter. A bowl of it carries a sense of home," Yuan said.她指出，9月和10月是莲藕最柔软、味道最鲜美的时候，也是这道菜的旺季。“对于我们湖北人来说，喝莲藕汤是一种传统。在我们的成长过程中，每到秋冬季节，小巷里就弥漫着莲藕汤的香气。一碗藕汤承载着家的味道。This year, Laoxiangji remained open throughout the Spring Festival holiday period. "I never expected lotus root soup to become such a hit during Spring Festival," Yuan said.今年，老乡记在整个春节假期期间一直营业。“没想到春节期间莲藕汤会这么火。”Taking advantage of a rare break, she went to seeNe Zha 2 with her 15-year-old daughter, a high school student and fan of the film. After the holiday rush, the two returned for a second viewing.趁着难得的休息时间，她和15岁的女儿一起去看《哪吒2》，女儿是一名高中生，也是《哪吒2》的影迷。假期结束后，两人又去看了第二场。Located inside a shopping mall, Yuan's restaurant often welcomes moviegoers looking for a meal after screenings. "Maybe some of them, after watching Ne Zha 2, find themselves craving a bowl of lotus root soup," she said.袁的餐厅位于一家购物中心内，经常有观众在电影放映后前来就餐。“她说："也许有些人看完《哪吒2》后，会想喝一碗莲藕汤。Lotus' elan莲花的魅力Riding the success ofNe Zha 2, lotus root has emerged as a culinary sensation beyond its home in Hubei.借助《哪吒2》的成功，莲藕在湖北以外的地方引起了美食界的轰动。On the third day of the Chinese New Year, as the film's box office takings soared, Qingshuiting Hubei cuisine outlets in Beijing introduced a Ne Zha-themed meal set. The two-person set, featuring pork rib lotus root soup, fried stuffed lotus root, and lotus root starch, quickly attracted food lovers. Diners who presented aNe Zha 2 ticket stub could also enjoy a 12 percent discount on lotus root soup.大年初三，随着票房的飙升，北京的清水亭湖北菜门店推出了哪吒主题套餐。排骨藕汤、炸藕酿、藕粉等二人套餐迅速吸引了美食爱好者。凭《哪吒2》门票票根就餐的食客还可享受藕汤12% 折的优惠。Li Simei, co-founder of Qingshuiting, anticipated lotus root's surge in popularity, given its deep connection to the investiture of the gods scene in the movie, where Ne Zha's body is reborn from lotus root. Since the ingredient has always been a staple at her restaurant, she had planned to introduce themed dishes based on the audience response.清水亭的创始人之一李思梅预料到莲藕会大受欢迎，因为莲藕与电影中哪吒投胎的场景有很深的联系。由于莲藕一直是她餐厅的主打食材，她计划根据观众的反应推出主题菜肴。The restaurant's signature lotus root soup is made from Honghu's renowned starchy lotus roots. "October to March is when lotus root reaches peak flavor," Li explained.餐厅的招牌藕汤是用洪湖著名的淀粉质莲藕制作的。“十月到三月是莲藕味道最鲜美的时候，"李解释道。"During this period, it stores starch in the mud, creating a rich, glutinous texture."“在此期间，它将淀粉储存在泥中，形成丰富的糯米质地"。To appeal to younger diners, Qingshuiting has also re-imagined traditional lotus root starch desserts, offering flavors like green tea and orange, paired with lotus slices and lotus balls. The modern twist transforms the classic street treat into a trendy, Instagram-worthy dessert.为了吸引更多年轻食客，清水亭还对传统的藕粉甜点进行了重新设计，推出了绿茶和橙子等口味，并搭配了藕片和藕球。这种现代的变化将经典的街头小吃转变成了一种时尚的、值得在Instagram上分享的甜点。"Our restaurant aims to showcase high-quality Hubei ingredients, including Honghu lotus root, and bring delicious Hubei cuisine to diners in Beijing," Li said.“我们的餐厅旨在展示包括洪湖莲藕在内的优质湖北食材，为北京的食客带来美味的湖北菜。”李说The growing demand for Hubei's lotus root was also evident at a Feb 21 agricultural showcase hosted by the Hubei Provincial Department of Agriculture and Rural Affairs and the Hubei Government's Beijing Office.在2月21日由湖北省农业农村厅和湖北省政府驻北京办事处主办的农业展示会上，湖北莲藕日益增长的需求也显而易见。The event brought Beijing restaurateurs face-to-face with Hubei suppliers, with Honghu lotus root emerging as a star ingredient. Li noted that many Beijing restaurants are now incorporating Honghu lotus root into their menus and hopes that more establishments will follow suit in show-casing the region's high-quality produce.此次活动让北京的餐馆老板与湖北的供应商面对面，洪湖莲藕成为其中的明星食材。李指出，许多北京餐馆正在将洪湖莲藕纳入他们的菜单，并希望更多餐馆效仿，展示该地区的优质产品。Demonn.魔鬼；恶魔；精力过人的人；邪念Tentaclesn. 触手( tentacle的名词复数)；触角；触须；触毛Frenzyn.狂乱，狂暴；极度的激动；狂怒Signaturen.签名；鲜明特色

In this episode of The Negotiation podcast, Todd Embley sits down with Peter Park, WPIC's latest addition in Melbourne and a recognized expert in Australia's consumer brand sector and the APAC e-commerce landscape. Peter delves into his professional journey, his role at WPIC, and why the firm is an excellent partner for Australian consumer brands, especially in the F&B and health supplements sectors. He shares his insights on the rising trends in these categories. He highlights the untapped potential in markets like South Korea and Vietnam, discussing strategies for Australian brands to make impactful entries into these markets. Additionally, Peter spices up the conversation with an intriguing discussion about the whisky market across APAC.Discussion Points:Peter's professional background and his recent transition to WPIC.The role of WPIC in bolstering Australian consumer brands in the APAC region.Emerging trends in the F&B and health supplements sectors across APAC.Detailed exploration of South Korea as an underrated market for Australian brands.Opportunities for Australian brands in Vietnam and strategies for market entry.The growing popularity of whisky across APAC and its potential as a market for Australian exporters.

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In this episode of The Negotiation podcast, host Todd Embley speaks with Joe Mazur, Senior Analyst at Trivium China, on the complexities of the U.S.-China relationship in the early days of the second Trump administration. Joe offers a comprehensive overview of the trade measures implemented by the U.S. since Donald Trump's re-election. He analyzes the motives behind the tariffs and their potential to escalate into more aggressive actions. He also analyzes China's response to U.S. tariffs, which included a series of non-reciprocal measures. Joe explains their strategic significance and implications for future negotiations.The conversation also touches on recent U.S. restrictions in the semiconductor industry, highlighting the critical role this sector plays in the broader technological conflict between the U.S. and China and the closure of the de minimis exemption for Chinese goods. Listeners will gain a comprehensive understanding of the current state and potential future of US-China economic relations, the strategic motivations behind recent policies, and the implications for companies from various sectors.Discussion Points:Overview of U.S. trade measures since Trump's reelection and their strategic underpinnings.Analysis of China's non-reciprocal countermeasures and their potential strategic goals.Impact of U.S. policies on the critical semiconductor industry and the broader tech conflict.Insights into the closure of the de minimis exemption for Chinese goods and its significance.Discussion on the brief suspension of Chinese packages by the U.S. Postal Service and its implications.

What comes after the blockbuster success of a Chinese animation? Toys and other collectible products, of course.一部中国动画电影大获成功后，随之而来的是什么？当然是相关玩具和其他收藏品。Sales of character-themed products related to the movie Ne Zha 2, the first film to gross more than $1 billion in a single market globally, have been red hot. From toys and apparel to collectible cards, demand for Ne Zha-themed promotional products is soaring, as cities across the country compete for recognition as the mythical hero's birthplace.《哪吒2》成为全球首部单一市场票房突破10亿美元的电影，与之相关的角色主题产品销量火爆。从玩具、服饰到收藏卡片，哪吒主题促销产品的需求激增，而神话英雄哪吒“故里”争夺战也在全国多地拉开帷幕。In Xiangtan, Hunan province, Hunan Sunny and Sandy Toy Manufacturing Co—the exclusive authorized manufacturer of 3D plastic food-related toys based on the film—is operating at full capacity to meet a tidal wave of demand.湖南省湘潭市的湖南桑尼森迪玩具制造有限公司作为该影片周边3D塑胶类食品玩具的独家授权生产制造商，正全力以赴投入生产以满足如潮水般涌来的需求。Yang Zhenlin, assistant to the company's chairman, said the first batch of Ne Zha-themed "blind box" toys supplied to a chain of snack stores sold out before Spring Festival, which fell on Jan 29. With a blind box, you can't see which toy figure is inside until you open it, so it's a fun surprise.公司董事长助理杨振麟表示，首批供应给某零食连锁店的哪吒主题“盲盒”玩具在1月29日春节前就已售罄。盲盒玩具在打开前无法知道里面装的是哪个角色，因此充满惊喜感。The company has produced toys, based on six main characters in the film, that sell for 11.5 yuan ($1.57) each, Yang said. More than 450,000 sets of Ne Zha-themed toys had been sold as of Monday through livestreams on Douyin, with revenue reaching 30 million yuan. That ranks first on the platform's board game and collectibles category, he said.杨振麟说，该公司生产了以影片6个主要角色为原型的玩具，每个售价11.5元人民币（1.57美元）。截至2月10日，通过抖音直播已售出45万余套哪吒主题玩具，收入达3000万元人民币，位居抖音桌游周边类产品第一。The company is also negotiating to get the intellectual property rights for two morecharacters from the film and intends to start producing those toys as well, he said.他表示，公司还在洽谈获取影片中另外两个角色的知识产权，并打算生产这些玩具。"We expected that the toys would be popular based on the success of the first movie of the franchise, but the popularity of Ne Zha 2 has far exceeded our expectations," Yang said. "We think it will be even more popular in the coming months, with sales revenue of related products reaching 200 million yuan for the year."杨振麟说：“基于第一部作品的成功，我们预料到这些玩具会受欢迎，但《哪吒2》的热度远超我们的预期。我们认为未来几个月它会更受欢迎，相关产品年销售收入将达到2亿元人民币。”The movie is expected to be a large-scale hit in overseas markets as well, so the company is preparing to sell the toys abroad, including in Southeast Asia, Japan, North America and Europe.该公司预计这部电影在海外市场也会大受欢迎，因此正准备将相关玩具销往国外，包括东南亚、日本、北美、欧洲。Sales of other products, such as limited-edition cards and badges, have also skyrocketed since the movie's release.自电影上映以来，限量版卡片和徽章等其他产品的销量也飙升。Chen Qi, general manager of Guangdong Henglitai Crafts Co in Dongguan, Guangdong province, which produces Ne Zha-themed cards, refrigerator magnets and badges, said the company made over 300,000 sets of such products in early January, and all have sold out. Workers are racing to produce more merchandise for the movie to meet public demand, he said.广东省东莞市广东衡立泰工艺品有限公司总经理陈祺介绍，该公司负责生产哪吒主题的卡片、冰箱贴、徽章，1月初生产的30万余套此类产品已全部售罄。他表示，工人们正加紧生产更多电影周边以满足公众需求。"The success of Ne Zha 2 shows that Chinese animation can compete with that of the Japanese and American giants," Chen said.“《哪吒2》的成功证明，中国动画完全能媲美日美巨头，”陈祺说。Li Baochuan, an expert in cartoon history at Hangzhou Normal University, said that derivative products are more than just merchandise. For the younger generation of consumers, they represent identity and a form of social currency.杭州师范大学动漫史料研究专家李保传表示，相关周边不仅仅是商品。对于年轻消费者来说，它们代表着身份，是一种社交货币。The remarkable sales success of the Ne Zha 2 products has also sent a positive signal to the industry, Li said.李保传说，《哪吒2》周边销量的火爆也给行业传递了积极信号。Meanwhile, several cities across China are now vying for the title of Ne Zha's birthplace, capitalizing on the film's success to boost tourism. The playful controversy has become a spectacle in itself, with some cities claiming to have "proof" of the character's origins.同时，中国多个城市正在争夺“哪吒故里”之名，想利用电影的成功来推动当地旅游业的发展。这场有趣的争议本身已成为一大看点，一些城市声称拥有哪吒起源的“证据”。On Feb 5, the first working day after the Spring Festival holiday, tourism and culture authorities in Tianjin municipality released a video claiming that Ne Zha was born in the city and went to primary school there.2月5日，即春节假期后第一个工作日，天津市文化和旅游局发布了一段视频，声称哪吒出生在天津，并在当地上过小学。The next day, Anhui authorities said that images of Ne Zha could be found all over the province's Guzhen county, with many sculptures and wall paintings of him. Shortly thereafter, authorities in Yibin, Sichuan province, announced that Ne Zha was born in its Nanguang township, and it released a list of cultural sites and landmarks inspired by the character.次日，安徽省有关部门表示，该省固镇县随处可见哪吒的形象，有很多哪吒的雕像和墙画。不久后，四川省宜宾市有关部门宣称，哪吒在该市南广镇出生，并公布了一系列受该角色启发的文化遗址和地标清单。Song Yangyang, deputy dean of the Institute for Creative Industries Technology at Renmin University of China, said the logic behind local governments competing for cultural ownership of Ne Zha is easy to understand: It generates a buzz, enhances the city's reputation and ultimately attracts tourists.中国人民大学创意产业技术研究院副院长宋洋洋表示，地方政府争抢哪吒文化归属的逻辑很好理解：它能形成热度和关注度，提升城市知名度，并最终吸引游客。But he also said he is not optimistic about the competition for so-called hometowns or birthplaces. Instead of vying for the title of hometown, he suggested focusing on adding genuine value through such things as tourism services, cuisine or other tangible products beyond toys.但他也表示，并不看好所谓家乡、出生地之争。他建议不要争夺“故里”之名，而应专注于通过旅游服务、美食或玩具之外的其他有形产品等增加真正的价值。appareln.衣服，服装derivativen.衍生物，派生物

En este episodio exploramos los temas más disruptivos y emocionantes del 2025. Comenzamos con el impacto deDeepSeek, una startup china que ha revolucionado la industria de la inteligencia artificial con un modelo ultraligero y eficiente, capaz de competir con gigantes como OpenAI y Google. Analizamos cómo esta innovación ha sacudido los mercados, especialmente a Nvidia, AMD y grandes proveedores de la nube, cambiando las reglas del juego en la demanda de chips y la infraestructura de IA.Luego nos sumergimos en el fenómeno de losmini dramas chinos, contenidos breves de menos de 5 minutos por episodio que están transformando el entretenimiento. Plataformas como Douyin, Tencent Video y iQIYI están liderando este cambio, generando ingresos masivos a través de suscripciones VIP, anuncios y regalos virtuales, superando incluso la recaudación de las taquillas tradicionales en China.Más adelante, hablamos sobre la evolución de loscountry clubs modernos para familias, espacios que están redefiniendo la socialización y convivencia familiar con conceptos innovadores adaptados a las nuevas generaciones. Finalmente, exploramos el rol deChatGPT como coach personal y profesional, y cómo esta herramienta está siendo utilizada para mejorar tanto el crecimiento profesional como la vida personal de millones de personas.Este episodio está cargado de datos sorprendentes, análisis profundo y predicciones sobre las tendencias que marcarán el 2025.Perfecto para founders, emprendedores y curiosos del futuro.

In this episode of The Negotiation podcast, Todd Embley has a captivating conversation with Elyse Ribbons, a seasoned expert in the dynamics of influencer marketing in China. Elyse shares her extensive experience and insights into the unique landscape of social media and influencer engagement in China, highlighting the intricacies of platforms like RedNote (Xiaohongshu) and Douyin.The discussion opens with Elyse recounting her journey and how she became deeply involved with China, setting the stage for her dive into the digital marketing landscape there. She breaks down the major platforms used for influencer marketing, comparing them to their Western counterparts, and dives deep into the particularities of RED and Douyin, explaining their specific features and the demographics they appeal to.Elyse discusses the financial aspects of engaging with influencers, including the costs associated with different types of content creation, such as live streaming. She clarifies the distinctions between Key Opinion Leaders (KOLs) and Key Opinion Consumers (KOCs) and offers advice on how brands can select the right influencers to maximize the success of their marketing campaigns.Notably, Elyse touches on the latest trends in influencer marketing within China and provides her perspective on the future of international brands in the Chinese market amidst US-China tensions. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to understand the evolving dynamics of influencer marketing in China and how to navigate this complex but rewarding space effectively.Discussion Points:Elyse's personal journey and initial engagement with China.Detailed analysis of major Chinese platforms for influencer marketing.Specific features and demographics of RED and Douyin.Cost considerations in influencer engagements.Differences and impacts of KOLs versus KOCs.Strategies for selecting the right influencers for marketing campaigns.Emerging trends in the influencer marketing sector in China.Future outlook for international brands in the Chinese market.

In this episode of the Negotiation Podcast, Todd Embley interviews David Nottingham, the EU General Manager for IPinYou, a leading Chinese martech company. David shares his journey from Southeast Asia to the ad tech world, discussing the unique challenges and opportunities within the Chinese digital ecosystem. He explains the workings of IPinYou, its proprietary technology, and how it compares to Western ad tech platforms. The conversation delves into the paid media landscape in China, the importance of audience data, and the rise of platforms like Xiao Hongxu. David also highlights the competitive nature of advertising in China and the regulatory environment that shapes the industry.TakeawaysDavid Nottingham has been with IPNU for seven years, leveraging his background in Southeast Asia.IPNU is a leading Chinese ad tech company with proprietary technology for media buying.The Chinese digital ecosystem is closed, requiring tailored ad tech solutions.Western companies face challenges entering the Chinese market due to regulations.Audience targeting in China relies heavily on device IDs rather than cookies.Xiao Hongxu has gained popularity as a social commerce platform in China.The competitive landscape in Chinese advertising requires unique data strategies.Walled gardens in China limit cross-platform advertising opportunities.The Chinese government is regulating super apps to reduce their market power.Understanding the nuances of the Chinese market is crucial for successful advertising.

In this episode of The Negotiation podcast, host Todd Embley is joined once again by Olivia Plotnick, a seasoned expert in China marketing and the founder of Wai Social. Today, they dive into the explosion of Xiaohongshu, or “Red Note”, in the United States because of the impending ban of TikTok.Olivia begins with a detailed overview of the current buzz surrounding "Red Note”, explaining why TikTok users are flocking to this app amidst concerns over the potential ban in the U.S. She explains the unique features of the platform and highlights the nature of interactions between American and Chinese users on the platform. Olivia shares amusing trends emerging from these interactions and comments on their significance against the backdrop of current geopolitical tensions.The discussion also explores the challenges Xiaohongshu faces as it navigates its newfound popularity in the U.S., including the complex decisions the platform must make to manage this surge. Olivia provides insights into how both Chinese and international brands might benefit from this trend, the scale of American user adoption, and the sustainability of this growth.Discussion Points:Overview and unique aspects of Xiaohongshu ("Red Note").The explosion of Red Note in the U.S. due to the potential TikTok ban.The dynamics between American and Chinese users on the platform.Challenges for Xiaohongshu amid increased U.S. user activity.Brand strategies in response to the platform's rising popularity.Long-term implications for Xiaohongshu's growth and user engagement.

China's parcel delivery industry shattered all previous records in 2024, handling a staggering 174.5 billion packages—equivalent to more than 124 per person in the country. The rapid expansion of the sector underscores not only the growing dependence of Chinese consumers on e-commerce, but also the increasing role express delivery plays as a barometer of the economy.2024年，中国快递业打破了所有历史纪录，处理了1745亿件包裹，相当于全国人均包裹数超过124件，业务量惊人。该行业的迅速扩张不仅凸显出中国消费者对电商的日益依赖，也反映出快递作为经济晴雨表的作用日益增强。This explosive growth comes as no surprise. The total volume of express delivery services last year reached 174.5 billion parcels, marking a 21 percent increase over the previous year. Meanwhile, business income from these services surged to 1.4 trillion yuan ($191 billion), reflecting a 13 percent growth.这一爆炸式增长并不令人意外。去年，快递业务总量达到1745亿件，同比增长21%。同时，快递业务收入飙升至1.4万亿元人民币（1910亿美元），同比增长13%。"The postal and express delivery industry has become a driving force in China's logistics sector, and for 11 straight years, it has ranked first globally in delivery volume," said Zhao Chongjiu, head of the State Post Bureau of China, at the bureau's annual conference on Wednesday in Beijing.1月8日，中国国家邮政局局长赵冲久在北京举行的全国邮政工作会议上介绍：“邮政快递业已成为中国物流业的驱动力，并且连续11年在全球快递业务量上稳居第一。”"The integration of express delivery into daily life has been profound. It now serves as a vital indicator of both economic vitality and development," he added.“快递已深刻融入日常生活中。它现在是经济活力和发展的重要指标，”他补充说。As more parcels move through the country's vast logistics network, it is clear that express delivery is no longer just about transporting packages from point A to point B—it has become a powerful symbol of China's thriving economy.随着越来越多的包裹在全国庞大的物流网络中流通，显然，快递已不仅是将包裹从A点运送到B点的简单行为——它已成为中国经济繁荣发展的有力象征。Across the nation, particularly in the central and western regions, delivery networks have been rapidly expanding. In 2024, express delivery volumes in these regions grew by 30 percent and 35 percent, respectively, compared to the previous year. This expansion has significantly helped bridge the development gap between urban and rural areas.在全国范围内，特别是在中西部地区，快递网络扩张迅速。与上一年相比，2024年中部、西部快递业务量分别增长了30%、35%。这一扩张显著缩小了城乡发展差距。Subsidized shipping policies to remote villages, such as those in the Xinjiang Uygur and Inner Mongolia autonomous regions, have brought e-commerce services to areas that once struggled with limited access to goods and services.针对偏远乡村（如新疆维吾尔族自治区和内蒙古自治区的乡村）实施的补贴运输政策，让那些原本获取商品和服务受限的地区也能享受电商服务。This growth has also unlocked new economic opportunities, enabling businesses in emerging sectors such as livestreaming e-commerce and cross-border trade to thrive. Online retail sales of physical goods soared last year, and the delivery industry played a crucial role in facilitating these transactions. This makes it an essential partner in the ongoing digital transformation of the economy.快递业务的增长也催生了新的经济机遇，使直播电商和跨境贸易等新兴行业得以蓬勃发展。去年，实物商品网络零售额飙升，快递行业在其中发挥了至关重要的作用，并成为持续推进经济数字化转型的重要力量。The result of this booming logistics network is felt in every corner of the country—transforming not only how businesses operate, but also how ordinary people live.蓬勃发展的物流网络带来的影响遍及全国各个角落——不仅改变了企业的运营模式，也改变了普通人的生活方式。One striking example is the story of Zilati, a young man from the Tajik ethnic group who married last year in a remote village in Tashikurgan Tajik autonomous county, Xinjiang.一个典型的例子是来自塔吉克族的小伙子兹拉提，去年他在新疆塔什库尔干塔吉克自治县的一个偏远村庄举行了婚礼。As he prepared for his wedding, Zilati was able to purchase nearly everything online—from decorations to large appliances such as a refrigerator—and have it delivered directly to his home. In the past, such a task would have required a long and arduous journey to Kashgar, the nearest big city. Thanks to the expanding logistics network, he was able to concentrate on enjoying his special day.在筹备婚礼时，兹拉提几乎能够在网上购买所有物品——从装饰品到冰箱等大家电——并直接送货到家。在过去，需要长途跋涉到距离最近的大城市喀什才能完成这些事情。得益于不断扩大的物流网络，他可以专心享受自己的特别日子。"I never imagined that my wedding could be this easy," Zilati said. "It's so convenient. I bought the wedding chocolates and decorations online. In the past, we had to travel to Kashgar, which took more than 10 hours. Now, thanks to online shopping, I was able to focus on celebrating my wedding rather than worrying about logistics."“我从未想过我的婚礼能这么轻松，”兹拉提说。“真是太方便了。我在网上买了婚礼巧克力和装饰品。过去，我们得花10个多小时跑去喀什。现在，多亏了网购，我可以专心庆祝婚礼，而不必担心物流问题。”In 2024, the average Chinese consumer received over 120 parcels annually, with the country's delivery network processing more than 5,500 every second.2024年，中国消费者人均一年收到120多个包裹，全国快递网络每秒处理5500多个包裹。Looking ahead, the industry is showing no signs of slowing down. In 2025, express delivery volume is projected to reach 190 billion, with corresponding revenue of 1.5 trillion yuan.展望未来，该行业仍将继续保持稳步上升态势。预计2025年快递业务量将达到1900亿件，相应快递业务收入将达到1.5万亿元。"The key growth drivers for the express delivery industry in 2025 will mainly come from the domestic e-commerce market, which continues to grow rapidly, especially with emerging e-commerce platforms like Douyin and Kuaishou driving market expansion. Internationally, cross-border e-commerce will be a major driver, with express delivery companies accelerating their global expansion, contributing to the growth of national delivery services," said Zhou Zhicheng, director of the Research Office of China Federation of Logistics and Purchasing.中国物流与采购联合会研究室主任周志成表示：“2025年快递行业增长的重要驱动力将主要来自国内电商市场，该市场将持续快速增长，尤其是抖音、快手等新兴电商平台将推动市场扩张。在国际上，跨境电商将成为主要驱动力，快递公司加速全球扩张，推动国家快递服务增长。”As China's express delivery sector continues to expand, it is clear that the logistics industry is not only driving economic growth, but is also becoming an integral part of everyday life for millions.显然，随着中国快递行业的持续扩张，物流行业不仅驱动着经济增长，也正成为数百万人日常生活不可或缺的一部分。barometern.晴雨表，标志arduousadj.艰难的,费力的

In this episode of The Negotiation Podcast, Todd Embley interviews Cynthia Dearin, founder of Dearin and Associates, who shares her unique career journey from diplomat to management consultant. She discusses the importance of global expansion for businesses, the services offered by her company, and the consumer sectors in Australia that are poised for success overseas. Cynthia emphasizes the need for expert guidance in internationalization and identifies promising growth markets for Australian companies. Todd and Cynthia also discuss the complexities and opportunities of international business expansion, particularly in the APAC region. They explore market dynamics, consumer expectations, and the importance of thorough market research. Cynthia outlines a strategic blueprint for successful international expansion, emphasizing the need to understand local markets, cultural nuances, and regulatory requirements. The discussion also highlights common challenges brands face entering new markets and the critical role of data-driven decision-making in overcoming these obstacles.TakeawaysCynthia's journey from diplomat to consultant highlights the importance of adaptability.Global expansion can significantly increase a company's revenue and profitability.Expertise in international markets is crucial for successful expansion.Australian products are perceived as high quality and trustworthy in overseas markets.Cynthia's company helps businesses create international strategies and navigate global markets.Understanding cultural differences is key to successful marketing abroad.Consumer sectors like food, fashion, and skincare have great potential for Australian exports.Market analysis can help businesses identify the best growth opportunities.The importance of storytelling in marketing Australian products overseas.Companies should focus on markets with overlapping opportunities, risk, and profitability. This is a big, chunky market that is perceived as difficult.You have to twin market size with profitability.Consumer expectations in China are very high.Same-day delivery is a recent thing in Australia.You can't just drift through international expansion.Understanding the ideal client is crucial.Market research should not be based on guesswork.Compliance with local regulations is essential.Pricing strategy must consider the entire value chain.Cultural understanding is key to successful marketing.

In this episode of The Negotiation podcast, host Todd Embley sits down with Anton Lapunov, WPIC's Key Account Manager and Strategy Lead for Japan. Anton shares his extensive experience and insights into the unique aspects of Japan's e-commerce landscape—and offers strategic advice for brands looking to enter this lucrative market.Anton begins by detailing his journey from China to Japan. He provides a comprehensive overview of Japan's e-commerce ecosystem, highlighting the major platforms, market penetration rates, and consumer expectations around delivery times which differ significantly from those in the West and China.The discussion shifts to comparing Rakuten with major Western and Chinese platforms like Amazon, Temu, Tmall, and JD.com, outlining key operational and strategic differences. Anton also draws on his experience in China to compare and contrast the e-commerce environments in China and Japan, noting cultural and logistical nuances.Further, Anton discusses emerging product categories that WPIC focuses on within the Japanese market and explores the extent to which social commerce and live-streaming have caught on in Japan. He outlines the main digital marketing channels that effectively drive e-commerce sales and brand awareness in Japan.To conclude, Anton lays out a strategic blueprint for foreign brands aiming to enter the Japanese market and highlights current trends and future opportunities within this diverse e-commerce landscape.Discussion Points:Anton Lapunov's career transition from China to Japan and his role in shaping e-commerce strategies.Detailed analysis of Japan's e-commerce landscape, including key players and consumer behaviors.Comparison of Japanese e-commerce platforms with those in the West and China.The rise of social commerce and digital marketing trends in Japan.Strategic entry points and growth opportunities for foreign brands in the Japanese market.

In this episode of The Negotiation podcast, Todd Embley talks with Jeff Crowther, Executive Director of the Health Products Association - China (HPA-China). Jeff shares his insights into the dynamic world of dietary supplements and nutritional ingredients in China, providing a deeper understanding of the market's growth, consumer trends, and regulatory landscape. Jeff begins by recounting his journey from the US to China, detailing how his passion for studying China and health products turned into a career that led him to his current role at HPA-China. He discusses the mission of HPA-China and its efforts to foster the growth of the health products industry within the region. The discussion then moves to an overview of China's natural health products market, highlighting why it is one of the fastest-growing sectors. Jeff identifies key consumer trends, such as increasing health awareness and the rising demand for natural and safe supplements, which are driving the market. Jeff also addresses the regulatory challenges that foreign brands face when entering the Chinese market and offers valuable insights into leveraging cross-border e-commerce as an effective market entry strategy. This channel allows international brands to bypass many traditional regulatory hurdles, making it an attractive option for new entrants. Discussion Points:Jeff Crowther's career trajectory and his role in bridging the gap between international health product companies and the Chinese market.An overview of the natural health products market in China and the factors contributing to its rapid growth.Consumer trends that are shaping the demand for dietary supplements in China.The challenges international brands face with China's regulatory environment.The strategic advantage of using cross-border e-commerce to enter the Chinese market.

We're thrilled to re-broadcast an insightful episode from the Sinica Podcast, where host Kaiser Kuo sits down with Bryce Whitwam to delve into the ever-evolving world of Chinese livestream e-commerce. Bryce's latest research highlights a fascinating shift: Chinese consumers increasingly gravitate toward smaller, more personalized livestream shows that foster greater interaction with hosts. While large-scale shows with millions of viewers still exist, they're gradually being replaced by micro-targeted streams on platforms like Xiaohongshu and Douyin, which offer a more authentic and engaging experience. This evolution carries significant implications for brands looking to connect with highly targeted audiences in China. It could hint at the future of livestream shopping in the West, especially as TikTok explores similar trends. 1. How did you first engage with the livestream e-commerce trend in China? 2. What's the history of livestream commerce, and how has it evolved since its inception? 3. How does livestreaming contribute to consumer engagement compared to traditional retail? 4. What differentiates Douyin, Xiaohongshu, and Taobao as livestream platforms? 5. What role does authenticity play in driving consumer trust in livestreaming? 6. How do demographics like age, gender, and location influence livestream shopping behavior? 7. What are the key differences between China's livestream strategies and the U.S.'s early adoption of TikTok Shop? 8. How are niche and microtargeted livestreams reshaping consumer behavior? 9. What challenges or disruptions could affect livestream commerce's growth in China? 10. What does the rise of livestreaming tell us about broader changes in Chinese consumer culture? 11. Recommendations

Li Ziqi, one of China's most popular influencers, made a surprising comeback on Tuesday afternoon after she stopped posting videos for more than three years. 11月12日下午，中国知名网络博主李子柒宣布回归。此前，她已停止发布视频三年多。Li resumed posting online with two new videos showing how she transformed a shed into a woodland cloakroom and making wardrobe doors using the intangible cultural heritage Chinese lacquerware techniques across social media platforms, including Douyin, Sina Weibo and YouTube.李子柒在抖音、新浪微博和YouTube等社交媒体平台上发布了两段新视频，展示她如何将柴房改造成森林衣帽间，以及如何利用中国非物质文化遗产漆器工艺制作衣柜门。Despite not updating her content since July 14, 2021, she has seen her followers increase and fans requesting for new videos during her absence. Many had wondered where she was or whether she had retired from posting. After her new videos were posted, her number of followers quickly shot up to more than 26.67 million on Sina Weibo and 50.15 million on Douyin.尽管自2021年7月14日以来李子柒就没有更新过内容，但在她缺席的这段时间里，她的粉丝数量仍在增加，还有很多粉丝希望她能够更新。许多人都在猜测她去了哪里，或者她是否已经不做视频博主。李子柒的新视频发布后，她在新浪微博上的粉丝数迅速飙升至2667多万，在抖音上的粉丝数也达到5015多万。Overnight, Li's return became the top trending topic online and as of 10 am Wednesday, her lacquerware video had garnered 120 million views on Sina Weibo, with more than 1.94 million interactions, including shares, comments and likes.一夜之间，李子柒回归成为网络最热门话题。截至11月13日上午10点，她的漆器视频在新浪微博上获得1.2亿次观看，以及超过194万次分享、评论和点赞等互动。Many people have flooded her comment section with messages of support, saying it is such a surprise to see her posting updates again. She commented saying she also missed her viewers and followers. "There is no time for me to write a small essay today. I will make it up to you when I am not that busy. Miss you!" she wrote.许多人涌入她的评论区留言表示支持，称看到她再次更新真是惊喜。李子柒在评论区回复，她也很想念她的观众和粉丝。“今天没空写小作文啦！过几天忙完了再给大家补上！想念你们！”她写道。 Li started posting short videos on Sina Weibo in 2016, featuring poetic portrayals of rural life, traditional cooking techniques and cultural practices, such as making ink and clothing. In 2020, she set a Guinness World Record for the most subscribers on a Chinese-language YouTube channel, with a total of 11.4 million followers at the time.2016年起，李子柒开始在新浪微博上发布短视频，内容围绕对乡村生活的诗意描绘、传统烹饪技艺以及制墨制衣等文化习俗。2020年，她以1140万粉丝数创下“最多订阅量的YouTube中文频道”吉尼斯世界纪录。lacquerwaren. 漆器intangible cultural heritage非物质文化遗产garnerv. 获得Guinness World Record吉尼斯世界纪录

TikTok s'est imposé dans les téléphones des adolescents et jeunes adultes en France et dans le monde. Pour L'atelier des médias, Emma Garboud-Lorenzoni a enquêté sur la place prise par cette application chinoise dans les apprentissages. Lancée en 2017, l'application TikTok a été développée par l'entreprise chinoise ByteDance pour le marché non chinois. En Chine, elle porte le nom de Douyin et se conforme à la surveillance, à la censure et à toutes les exigences du gouvernement de Pékin. Depuis plusieurs années, TikTok est sous le feu des critiques dans certains pays, États-Unis et Union européenne en tête. Il lui est reproché entre autres choses d'aspirer nos données personnelles, de laisser circuler de la désinformation, ou encore d'être particulièrement addictive pour ses usagers, notamment les plus jeunes.Et pourtant, rien qu'en France, des millions de lycéens et étudiants se servent au moins une fois par mois de TikTok pour s'informer, se divertir, mais aussi pour leurs études.L'atelier des médias vous propose plus d'une demie heure d'une enquête pour que nous nous fassions une meilleure idée des enjeux autour de l'une des applications les plus puissantes de sa génération.Avec :- des lycéens et des professeures d'un établissement public de Roissy-en-Brie- Marlène Masure, directrice des opérations de TikTok France- Océane Herrero, journaliste à Politico, autrice de Le système TikTok : Comment la plateforme chinoise modèle nos vies (éditions du Rocher, 2023)- Monsieur Prof, professeur d'anglais et créateur de contenus sur TikTok- Nawal Abboub, docteure en sciences cognitives, directrice scientifique de la plateforme Rising Up- Michel Cymes, médecin français et créateur de contenus sur TikTok- Adrien Joly, fondateur et CEO de l'agence MojoyDans ce grand reportage, il est question du hashtag et du prix #ApprendresurTikTok, du fil d'actualité Pour toi de TikTok, de l'agence Webedia, du Clémi, de la plateforme éducative de l'audiovisuel public français Lumni. 

We're unpacking a critical issue affecting luxury and prestige brands operating in China's discount-heavy e-commerce landscape. With platforms like Tmall and JD and emerging competitors like Douyin and Pinduoduo, brands are constantly pressured to use aggressive discounting strategies to boost sales and visibility. Jacques Roizen, managing director of China Consulting at Digital Luxury Group, joins us as an industry expert who guides some of the world's top prestige and luxury brands through these challenges. Together, we'll explore the long-term impact of discount culture on brand equity, why some brands are starting to ‘detox' from discounts, and how the rise of the gray market is reshaping consumer expectations. 1. How did you enter the e-commerce luxury business in China? 2. Give us the history of premium/luxury e-commerce and how it evolved from its early days. 3. How important is e-commerce for new consumers to learn about new brands? 4. Where's the pressure for brands to discount so much? 5. Is GMV still an effective measure of performance in e-commerce? 6. How can brands discount detox? 7. Who in the organization can orchestrate a discount detox? 8. What should brands do to improve brand equity? Is livestream a way to do this?

In this episode of The Negotiation, Todd Embley speaks with Jacob Cooke, co-founder and CEO of WPIC Marketing and Technologies, about the recent Singles Day shopping festival in China. They discuss the evolution of Singles Day, its performance in 2024, innovations in e-commerce, logistics challenges, and the competitive landscape of e-commerce platforms in China. Jacob shares insights on consumer behavior, marketing strategies, and the future of sales events in the region.TakeawaysSingles Day has evolved into a major shopping festival.2024 saw a 16% increase in sales compared to last year.Collectibles and premium products gained popularity this year.Alibaba made significant changes to support brands.China's e-commerce relies heavily on direct bank payments, not credit cards.Logistics during Singles Day has improved with a multi-day approach.Alibaba and JD dominate the Singles Day market.Consumer behavior is shifting towards higher-quality products.Future sales events include 12-12 and Women's Day in March.The competitive landscape is adapting with innovative strategies. 

Is Baidu or Google still the preferred source for answers? Gen Z certainly doesn't think so! Young people are now ditching large search engines and turning to Douyin and Instagram for everything from lunch spots to life hacks. Why has social media become the new place to go for people to find all the answers to their questions? / Motivational Monday (16:56)! On the show: Heyang, Steve Hatherly & Yushan Fei Fei

In this episode of The Negotiation, Todd Embley interviews Pier Smulders, a digital and e-commerce expert with extensive experience in the Chinese market. They discuss the evolving landscape of e-commerce, particularly focusing on the opportunities for Australian and New Zealand brands in China and Southeast Asia. Pier shares insights on the importance of e-commerce as a channel, the cultural differences in consumer behavior, and the necessity of having a solid partner when entering new markets. The conversation also touches on Alibaba's diverse business model and its competitive strategies in the global market.TakeawaysChina is the most important export market for Australia and New Zealand.E-commerce is essential for reaching a vast customer base in China.Cultural differences significantly impact e-commerce strategies.Partner selection is crucial for success in new markets.Brands must be adaptable to the fast-evolving Chinese market.Cross-border e-commerce offers unique opportunities for foreign brands.Shopping in China is often seen as a form of entertainment.Southeast Asia presents a viable expansion opportunity for brands familiar with China.Learning from competitors can provide valuable insights for market entry.Consumer choice is enhanced by increased competition in the e-commerce space.Sound Bites"China is for both countries by far the most important export market.""Shopping is entertainment and entertainment is shopping in China.""You have to be much more nimble and change all the time.""Alibaba is better off empowering its retail partners.""Consumer choice becomes really important.""China evolves faster than many other markets.""Partner selection is so important.""You need a good partner to navigate the complexities."

Premiér Petr Fiala (ODS) se pokouší etablovat na čínské sociální síti Douyin, kterou my známe jako TikTok. Jeho marketéři zřejmě usoudili, že tento krok zastaví propad preferencí ODS a Spolu.

In this episode of The Negotiation podcast, host Todd Embley interviews Ken Daley, the CEO of Joybees Footwear. Ken shares insights from his extensive career in the footwear industry, discussing his experiences with various brands and the lessons learned along the way. He emphasizes the importance of digital innovation, customer experience, and personalization in today's market, particularly when expanding into the APAC region. Ken also highlights the unique challenges the footwear industry faces, including sizing and return rates, and offers valuable advice for brands looking to grow internationally.TakeawaysThink global, act local is essential for international success.Personalization enhances customer loyalty and emotional connection.Digital marketing investment is crucial for brand visibility.Understanding cultural nuances is key when entering new markets.Building a reliable supply chain is a significant challenge.Customer experience should be prioritized to build brand loyalty.Automation can help deliver relevant customer experiences.The digital landscape in APAC is a trendsetter for global e-commerce.Social commerce is becoming increasingly important in the U.S.Patience and persistence are vital for success in APAC.

In this episode of The Negotiation podcast, host Todd Embley is joined by Daniel Mabey, Asia President of the United Natural Products Alliance. Daniel shares his expert insights into the rapidly growing nutraceutical industry within the Asia-Pacific region, focusing on current market trends, the importance of third-party certification, and the evolving dynamics of dietary supplements influenced by an aging population, rising health consciousness, and digital platforms. Daniel begins by discussing the role and upcoming events of the UNPA, setting the stage for a deep dive into how demographic shifts, consumer health consciousness, and digital platforms are shaping the demand for dietary supplements in APAC. He explains the critical role of third-party certification in building consumer trust and facilitating market entry for new brands. The conversation covers the specific market characteristics of China, Japan, and South Korea, highlighting how each country's unique regulatory and consumer environment affects the strategy of dietary supplement brands. Daniel also touches on the burgeoning opportunities in Southeast Asian markets like Vietnam, Thailand, and Indonesia. Further, he emphasizes the significance of e-commerce and digital sales channels in these regions, offering strategic advice for US brands aiming to penetrate these markets effectively.  Discussion Points:Overview of the United Natural Products Alliance and its activities in APAC.Trends driving the demand for dietary supplements in the Asia-Pacific region.The impact of demographic trends on the market.E-commerce influence on market dynamics in major APAC countries.Strategic advice for navigating regulatory challenges and localizing products in APAC markets.

In this episode of The Negotiation podcast, Todd Embley sits down with Antoaneta Becker, Director of Consumer Economy at the China-Britain Business Council, to delve into China's dynamic and ever-evolving e-commerce landscape.  Antoaneta, an expert on the Chinese market, discusses the upcoming China Consumer event hosted by CBBC, its strategic importance for UK brands, and the latest trends influencing China's consumer economy. Antoaneta delves into China's e-commerce sector, contrasting China's ecosystem with the UK's digital marketplaces, and identifies high-growth consumer sectors that UK brands can capitalize on. Antoaneta also provides her perspective on whether British brands should emphasize their national identity in the Chinese market. Finally, she addresses common challenges UK brands encounter in China and offers strategic advice for navigating these complexities successfully. Discussion Points:Antoaneta Becker's career path and role at the China-Britain Business Council.Detailed insights into the China Consumer 2024 event, including its agenda and expected outcomes for UK brands.Current trends and growth sectors in China's e-commerce landscape.The strategic advantage of British identity in the Chinese market.Challenges faced by UK brands in China and strategies to overcome them.

In this episode of The Negotiation podcast, host Todd Embley is joined by Mike Todd, a seasoned expert in international business development with a rich history of helping consumer brands expand into APAC markets. Mike shares invaluable insights from his experiences with major brands like Hunter, Swims, Uggs, and Mizuno and discusses the strategies that led to their success in these competitive regions.Starting with exploring his strategic approach for each brand, Mike delves into the APAC region's unique market dynamics and consumer behaviors that influenced his tactics. He also talks about the inception and growth of his proprietary brand, providing a firsthand look at the challenges and rewards of building a brand from the ground up.As a Senior Advisor at Dearin & Associates, Mike outlines his role in assisting companies to navigate the complexities of international expansion. He highlights common pitfalls to avoid and offers tailored advice for Australian brands considering entering or expanding within the Chinese market and other international arenas.The conversation wraps up with Mike's forecast for the future, pinpointing sectors and markets that present lucrative opportunities for Australian brands aiming to go global. His advice is a must-listen for anyone looking to understand the intricacies of international brand expansion.

In this episode of The Negotiation podcast, Todd Embley hosts Marlene Sharp, an entertainment executive known for her role in globalizing Japanese game franchises like Sonic the Hedgehog. Throughout her career with LEVEL-5 abby and Sega of America, Marlene tackled the unique challenges of adapting Japanese franchises for global audiences. Now leading Pink Poodle Productions, she utilizes her extensive experience to provide specialized services for IP franchises that span the Asian and North American entertainment markets. During the discussion, Marlene addresses the evolving landscape of international entertainment, emphasizing the rising influence of Japanese, Korean, and Chinese franchises in the West.  Discussion Points ·      Marlene's transition from working in traditional entertainment roles to specializing in Asian media properties.·      Challenges of adapting Japanese game franchises for global markets.·      The role of cultural considerations in international entertainment.·      Services offered by Pink Poodle Productions and their relevance to Asian markets.·      Differences in collaboration styles between Japanese and Korean partners.·      The evolving influence of Asian content in Western entertainment.·      Advice for navigating cross-cultural boundaries in the entertainment industry.·      Future projects and new markets of interest in Asia.

In this episode of The Negotiation, Darren Touch, founder and CEO of the Canada China Forum, discusses his interest in international relations with China and his experience as a Schwarzman Scholar at Tsinghua University. He shares his insights on the current state of Canada-China relations and the necessary steps to strengthen the relationship. Touch emphasizes the importance of people-to-people exchanges, educational programs, and language proficiency in building a new generation of leaders well-versed in China affairs. He also highlights the challenges of binary thinking and the opportunities for Canadians to gain hands-on experience in China and other parts of the world. Enjoy!Key Points:Developing a nuanced understanding of China is crucial for building a balanced and informed approach to Canada's strategy towards China.People-to-people exchanges and educational programs are key to strengthening the Canada-China relationship.Language proficiency and hands-on experience in China are valuable competencies for future leaders in international policy and diplomacy.Challenges include binary thinking and the need to overcome biases and stereotypes about China.Opportunities lie in expanding educational programs and encouraging Canadians to gain international experience.Leaving one's comfort zone and experiencing different cultures and perspectives is essential for personal and professional growth.

In this episode of The Negotiation podcast, we take a look back at the Paris 2024 Olympics with Mark Dreyer, the preeminent analyst of China's sports scene. Mark, a seasoned China sports reporter, delves deep into China's performance at the 2024 Games and the cultural phenomena surrounding Chinese athletes.The discussion kicks off with a review of China's overall performance at the Paris 2024 Olympics, looking at how China fared in the medal tally and significant victories and storylines.One topic explored in depth is Zheng Qinwen's gold medal victory in women's tennis. Mark also addresses the controversies that clouded China's swimming successes, including Pan Zhanle's world record in the 100-metre freestyle.The conversation shifts to the societal impact of sports, examining the treatment of athletes as celebrities in China and the governmental steps taken to manage public obsession with star athletes.Moreover, Mark touches upon other intriguing sports developments within China, including the influence and challenges faced by North American sports leagues operating in the Chinese market.This episode is tailored for listeners eager to understand the nuances of China's evolving sports landscape and the broader implications for international sports dynamics.Discussion Points:China's Olympic Performance: Evaluating the significance of the Paris 2024 Olympics for China and the emphasis on gold medals.Highlight on Zheng Qinwen: Discussing the impact of her gold medal win on China's sports scene.Controversies in Swimming: Analyzing the issues surrounding high-profile Chinese swimmers and their implications.Celebrity Culture in Sports: Exploring the phenomenon of athletes as celebrities and the social dynamics it creates.Broader Sports Developments: Delving into the presence and challenges of North American sports leagues in China.

This week we talk about Huawei, DJI, and ByteDance.We also discuss 5G infrastructure, black-box algorithms, and Congressional bundles.Recommended Book: The Spare Man by Mary Robinette KowalNote: my new book, How To Turn 39, is now available as an ebook, audiobook, and paperback wherever you get your books :)TranscriptIn January of 2024, Chinese tech giant Huawei brought an end to its years-long US lobbying effort, meant to help mend fences with western politicians.In mid-2019, then US President Trump had blacklisted the company using an executive order that, in practice, prevented Chinese telecommunications companies from selling specialized equipment in the US, as part of a larger effort to clamp-down on the sale of Chinese 5g and similar infrastructure throughout the US.Around the same time, a Huawei executive was jailed in Canada for allegedly violating sanctions on Iran, and several other western nations were making noises about their own bans, worrying—as Trump's administration said they were worried—that Huawei and similar Chinese tech companies would sell their goods at a loss or at cost, significantly undercutting their foreign competition, and as a consequence would both lock down the burgeoning 5g market, including all the infrastructure that was in the process of being invested in and deployed, while also giving the Chinese government a tool that could allow them to tap all the communications running through this hardware, and potentially even allow them to shut it all down, if they wanted, at some point in the future—if China invaded Taiwan and wanted to keep the West from getting involved, for instance.So while part of this ban on Huawei—for which the President made use of the International Emergency Economic Powers Act and declared a national emergency—was undoubtedly political (part of the trade war Trump started as part of the "China is the enemy" platform he was running on leading up to the 2020 election), there were also real-deal concern about China insinuating itself into the world's infrastructure, beginning with the rollout of the next phase of communications technologies; making themselves indispensable, disallowing foreign competition, and yes, possibly even creating a bunch of backdoors they could use at some point in the future to tip the scales in their favor during a conflict.This ban also ensured that Huawei's then quite popular line of smartphones wouldn't be available in the US, or many other Western countries. The company sold off its Honor brand of phones in a scramble to try to protect that line of products from these new blocks on its offerings, which among other things disallowed them from accessing the chips necessary to make competitive smartphone products, but the legislation just kept coming after that initial salvo, the US Federal Communications Commission banning the sale or import of anything made by Huawei in late-2022, and a bunch of fundamental US allies, especially those with which the US collaborates on military and intelligence matters, have likewise banned Huawei products on their shelves and in their communications networks; the idea being that even one Huawei transmitter or modem could tap into the whole of these networks—at least in theory—which is considered a big enough security concern to justify that blanket ban.Huawei has managed to survive, though it didn't scale the way its owners seemed to think it would back before all these bans.Now it exists as a primarily regional outfit, still making billions in revenue each year, though down to about half the revenue it was earning before 2019.Another popular Chinese tech company, DJI, is now scrambling to deploy its lobbyists and circle the wagons, as there's word that it's on a shortlist of potential Chinese security threats, in this case because the company makes very popular consumer and professional grade drones, which have successfully outcompeted many western brands of the same, and which have thus started to dominate aspects of the drone market.These drones tend to be of the six or eight mini-propeller variety, the kind that people fly for fun, or use to shoot aerial photos, but the success of drones, even of this kind of drone, in Ukraine, reworked to spy on enemy fortifications or to carry explosives, has had the US Defense Department thinking it might not be the best idea to allow a Chinese company to own a substantial chunk of the US and international drone market—for many of the same reasons that Huawei was considered to be a threat; because that would allow China to continue to take out international rivals, allegedly by stealing their competitor's tech back in the day, and by continuing to back their companies with government support and funding, which makes fair and level competition a bit of an impossibility.These companies are doing well for many reasons, then, and some of those reasons are not replicable outside the tight relationship the Chinese government has with its corporate entities.If DJI is ultimately targeted in this way, it would likely be via a similar mechanism as the ban that was slapped on Huawei: new drones made by DJI would be unable to use the US's communications infrastructure, which would make their continued functionality in the country all but impossible.This wouldn't ban DJI drones that are already owned by folks in the US, and it's anyone's guess as to how likely this will be to pass, as a bill to this end is currently working its way through the House, but DJI is lobbying heavily, is more common and popular in the US than Huawei was, and there's a chance that it simply won't be worth the potential political consequences for those who vote to ban it, if the bill works its way further through the process.What I'd like to talk about today is another potential ban of a popular Chinese product, TikTok, and how such a ban might play out.—Back in 2020, the Trump administration announced that it was looking into banning TikTok, a popular vertical video-focused social network that operates a bit like a cross between Instagram and YouTube, and which was becoming especially influential with young people, so-called Gen Zers.TikTok is owned by a Chinese company called ByteDance, and ByteDance has a version of the same app in other countries, including China, which there is called Douyin.That same year, TikTok hit back against the Trump administration with a legal challenge that said, in essence, the President was just trying to score political points by passing protectionist laws in the lead-up to the election, and that it might have also been revenge because there were young people on the platform posting videos about a prank they instigated at a Trump rally, which seemed to irk the former President.Around this same time, TikTok higher ups began working on what became known as Project Texas, which was meant to help address one of the government's concerns and complaints, that data and media shared on TikTok was sent to Chinese servers, which suggested all that information could be more easily siphoned off and used by the Chinese government.This project resulted in a re-working of how data on the platform is handled, bringing in US tech company Oracle to keep tabs on everything, ensuring that this data is safely managed and not sent somewhere the Chinese government can easily get it.A former employee of TikTok alleged in early 2023 that this Project didn't do what it was supposed to do, and TikTok's leadership said that this employee left before it was fully implemented; other involved people have spoken about their own takes on the matter since then, some of them saying the company is locked down tight because of all the oversight it's receiving, while others have said it makes big security claims, but is still not locked down the way it needs to be.This concern is the result of a law in China that says, basically, if the government tells you to hand something over, you do, or you can be stripped of all your wealth, can be put in prison, can even be killed.So ByteDance's leadership's claims that they have not handed this sort of data over to the Chinese government, and wouldn't do so if they were asked, can't be trusted, according to arguments against their claims, because they would of course lie about this if they had handed it over, and may not even be legally allowed to admit to so doing, but they also wouldn't really have a choice if they were asked—they would legally, in China, have to do so.That's the big argument and concern on the US security side of things: the Chinese system works different than the system in many other countries, and because of how integrated and entwined their government is with their market, every single Chinese company, like ByteDance, like Huawei, like DJI, should be considered a wing of the Chinese military, because in practice, they are.Thus, as soon as these concerns about TikTok started to hit the mainstream consciousness, we started to see those federal efforts to do something about it—most of which were initially unsuccessful, except for that Project Texas effort, about which no one seems to be able to say with any certainty whether it was successful or not.At the state level, we also saw a bunch of bans on having the TikTok app on corporate and government devices, and in some places, like Florida and Montana and Indiana, we've also see bans on Chinese individuals and Chinese companies acquiring land, working on some types of research, setting up factories, and other such things.All of which sets the stage for a piece of legislation that was passed by the US Congress earlier this month, and then signed by President Biden, saying that ByteDance needs to divest itself of TikTok, and soon, otherwise TikTok will be banned in the US.The specifics are important here: first is that this legislation was passed as part of a bundle with legislation that also provided funding for Ukraine, Israel and Palestinians, and Taiwan—so this is generally being seen as a sweetener to some further-right Republicans who otherwise would have opposed those funding efforts, and it may not have been passed if it hadn't been thus bundled.Second is that this isn't a TikTok ban, in the sense that Biden signed it and now TikTok is banned in the US. Instead, it says, basically, TikTok can keep operating in the US, but it can't be owned by a Chinese company, which again, if the Chinese government asks them to do spy or military stuff on their behalf, they would legally have to do. So the idea is that TikTok itself isn't the problem, it's those ties to the Chinese government and intelligence and military apparatus.Third is that the company now has nine months to figure out a deal to sell the whole or part of TikTok to some more acceptable—which in this case means non-Chinese-government-entangled—owner, and the President has the option of extending that to a full year, if it looks like a deal is about to be done, but needs a little more time.That's up from a previously proposed six months, and is considered to be more realistic, given the scope and scale of the company in question.And that scope and scale is point number four: TikTok is huge. It's an absolutely behemoth company, with about 170 million users in the US, alone, and about $16 billion in revenue each year.That's still nowhere near Meta's $134.9 billion of annual revenue, but it's still a colossal company that's generally considered to be worth more than $100 billion, again, for the US assets alone—though if the company were to sell everything but the algorithm it uses to decide what videos to show its users, it's though that price could drop to closer to $20 billion; which is still substantial enough that there wouldn't be many people or entities capable of affording it, and some of the big, well-moneyed US tech players, like Meta and Google, would be unlikely to even try, as their offer would probably be held up by antitrust concerns within the current, fairly hardcore regulatory environment.So ByteDance is being told to sell their US assets within a year, max, and they may have to find a buyer willing to spend tens of billions of dollars for it, and that buyer would have to be acceptable to the same US government that is telling the existing owner it has to sell or be banned in the country.Analysts are mixed on whether this is a bluff or not, but at the moment, ByteDance's leadership is saying, in essence, no—we're not going to play this game, we would rather shut down the US version of TikTok than sell those assets.Part of the rationale here might be that the Chinese government is telling ByteDance's owners that they're not allowed to sell these assets; it could be a requirement they're dressing up as staunch resilience to save face, basically.It could also be that they did the math and realized that their US offerings, despite being worth billions, are nowhere near their most profitable assets—those are in China—and they'd rather double-down on that larger market and other foreign markets than sell off something valuable in the US, which could then be used to challenge them in some of those remaining markets.It could also be that they're holding out for a good deal, or delaying, hoping that denying even the possibility of a sale will help their case in court.And they do, by some estimations at least, have a pretty solid case to lean on.Some legal experts are saying their First Amendment rights are being violated, and in a 1965 Supreme Court case, Lamont v. Postmaster General, the court ruled that foreign-produced propaganda—in that case communist propaganda—could still be distributed through the postal service because Americans have a first amendment right to receive it, even if they didn't specifically request it.This is considered to be relevant, here, because one of the arguments against TikTok by the US government is that the Chinese government could adjust what they show people, favoring content that supports positions and views of the world they like, over time adjusting the opinions and facts or pseudo-facts young people in particular are working from—which over time could also influence what they believe, how they vote, and so on. There have already been claims that TikTok favors pro-Palestinian content over pro-Israeli content, for instance, and it has long suppressed work that talks about the Tiananmen Square massacre and other things the Chinese government doesn't like; it doesn't generally fully disappear this stuff from the platform, but the algorithms show that sort of content to few people, which has a similar effect to deleting it on an app where people primarily discover things based on what they're shown by that algorithm.Of course, Facebook and Twitter and other networks have been accused of the same, in Meta's case downplaying news and political content, and in Twitter's, recently, post transition to X, favoring more conservative posts over more liberal ones—though in both cases, and in TikTok's, too, it's difficult to prove this sort of thing, and the algorithms are often black boxes rather than open code we can look at and judge objectively; so some such claims may be based on anecdote and the complainer's own bias.And it's worth mentioning here that although the Chinese government, TikTok's leadership, and a slew of free speech rights groups have come down on TikTok's side, citing the US's First Amendment and the support it would seemingly have for the popular app and those who want to use it to exercise their speech—and for the company to exercise its own, as well, sharing stuff those people watch—China has regularly banned US social networks from its highly controlled and censored portion of the internet, clamping down on those that survive so hard that they don't have much control, their data highly secured and allegedly tapped within China.So China is saying the US is in the wrong for doing something similar to what it does back home, though on a much smaller and more focused scale, and one of the counterarguments being made by some folks in the US, including some who are typically free speech proponents, is—well, tit-for-tat. Countries that remain open for US social networks will have their networks welcomed in the US in the same way, but those who don't? Their futures are less clear, because why should the US allow that kind of potential security and influence risk when the other side refuses to do the same?There's a question here, then, of what the modern, splintered internet is and how it should be treated—perhaps especially in free speech-favoring, democratic societies—now that we've moved past the veneer of free and open online activity everywhere.That's never been the case in China, and in many other countries around the world, so the idea that the US and Europe and similar nations need to behave as if it's equally open and free everywhere seems a little outmoded, and some such entities, like the EU, have been regulating based on that reality, while the US has been slow to do the same; this could mark a moment in which the US starts thinking along these same terms, or it could be another instance of maintaining the previous paradigm, because that tends to be easier, and because the relevant laws haven't been updated, yet.There's also the question of how expansive this particular bill will end up being.Does it apply to ByteDance's other apps, as well, including the popular CapCut video editing app, and its existing Instagram-dupe Lemon8, and potential future Instagram-clone TikTok Notes?Further, does it apply to other Chinese-owned apps, and other apps owned by companies in, for instance, Russia and other current and future antagonistic states?Also, to what degree will the law allow friendly nation states, like Japan and European nations, to scoop up these sorts of assets and operate them in the States, in a way China would no longer be allowed, when there's the chance that some of them—Hungary, for instance—might not always be so friendly? How does the friendly or unfriendly judgement get made, and what sort of process is involved in changing a nation's label from one to the other?Right now, the framing of all this is mostly whether we prioritize free speech or national security, and it's arguably the government's responsibility to make that argument, or face the electoral consequences of seemingly behaving in anti-speech ways without any real purpose, beyond potentially empowering US-based social platforms over foreign versions of the same.And lacking a stronger argument and more public evidence, there's a decent change a lot of people, especially young people will be irked at a TikTok ban, or even the possibility of one, despite the supposed security threat it poses.All of which suggests this will be an interesting year, as the clock ticks downward on those 9 months, plus another 3, possibly, that ByteDance has to sell its US assets, during which several companies will probably arise, stating their case for scooping up the most popular social platform, with young people at least, in the country, and during which ByteDance's lawyers will be filing cases on their employers' behalf.And this will all go down as the country winds its way toward the November election, which features two presidents that have spoken out against the app, while also having used it for their own political gains, to try to reach the youths of the country, who will play a major role in this upcoming election, but also a lot of elections after that, well into the future.Show Noteshttps://supreme.justia.com/cases/federal/us/381/301/https://www.wsj.com/politics/states-take-on-china-in-the-name-of-national-security-7ed05257https://apnews.com/article/us-china-blinken-wang-yi-8c1c453df3afbd6ec87ced0c8d618064https://www.theverge.com/2024/4/24/24139036/biden-signs-tiktok-ban-bill-divest-foreign-aid-packagehttps://www.dw.com/en/eu-sets-tiktok-ultimatum-over-addictive-new-app-feature/a-68891902https://www.nytimes.com/2024/03/22/business/tiktok-india-ban.htmlhttps://apnews.com/article/tiktok-divestment-ban-what-you-need-to-know-5e1ff786e89da10a1b799241ae025406https://apnews.com/article/tiktok-ban-bytedance-lawsuit-biden-386e6d81e2eef61a756bcdea96cd0aefhttps://www.axios.com/2024/03/16/tiktok-ban-divest-ownership-chinahttps://www.lawfaremedia.org/article/five-observations-on-the-tiktok-bill-and-the-first-amendmenthttps://archive.ph/7Fiknhttps://apnews.com/article/tiktok-ban-bytedance-lawsuit-biden-386e6d81e2eef61a756bcdea96cd0aefhttps://www.washingtonpost.com/technology/2024/04/25/tiktok-legal-battle-is-certain/https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2024/04/18/business/media/tiktok-ban-american-culture.htmlhttps://www.pewresearch.org/internet/2024/02/22/how-u-s-adults-use-tiktok/https://www.ypulse.com/article/2023/06/05/gen-z-is-officially-using-tiktok-more-than-any-other-social-media-platform/https://www.nytimes.com/2024/04/23/technology/bytedance-tiktok-ban-bill.htmlhttps://www.cnn.com/2024/04/25/tech/who-could-buy-tiktok/index.htmlhttps://www.nbcnews.com/business/tiktok-ban-bill-why-congress-when-takes-effect-rcna148981https://www.wsj.com/tech/bytedance-says-it-wont-sell-u-s-tiktok-business-61f43079https://www.wsj.com/tech/why-china-is-holding-its-fire-as-u-s-moves-to-ban-tiktok-38a63cddhttps://www.theverge.com/2024/4/11/24127579/tiktok-ai-virtual-influencers-advertisinghttps://www.lawfaremedia.org/article/project-texas-the-details-of-tiktok-s-plan-to-remain-operational-in-the-united-stateshttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/TikTok#Project_Texashttps://www.nytimes.com/2024/04/25/business/china-tiktok-douyin.htmlhttps://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c289n8m4j19ohttps://techcrunch.com/2024/04/27/will-a-tiktok-ban-impact-creator-economy-startups-not-really-founders-say/ https://www.washingtonpost.com/technology/2024/04/25/tiktok-ban-bill-us-communities/https://www.wsj.com/tech/how-tiktok-lost-the-war-in-washington-bbc419cchttps://archive.ph/pnMEGhttps://www.theverge.com/24141539/tiktok-ban-bytedance-china-dc-circuit-supreme-courthttps://www.axios.com/2024/04/23/tiktok-ban-bytedance-apps-capcut-lemon8https://www.nytimes.com/2024/04/25/us/politics/us-china-drones-dji.htmlhttps://www.theregister.com/2024/01/05/huawei_ditches_us_lobbying_team/https://engadget.com/huawei-honor-sold-024435704.htmlhttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Huaweihttps://www.politico.com/story/2019/05/15/trump-ban-huawei-us-1042046 This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit letsknowthings.substack.com/subscribe

The Chinese company ByteDance owns two versions of basically the same app. In the U.S. we have TikTok, used by an estimated 170 million people, while in China they have Douyin, home to more than 700 million active users. Despite having the same parent company, TikTok and Douyin function as separate worlds. Now, as TikTok simmers in political hot water, the differences between the two apps are under a microscope. To get to the bottom of what sets these sister apps apart, Marketplace's Lily Jamali spoke with Marketplace's China correspondent, Jennifer Pak, about why ByteDance has this system in the first place.

The Chinese company ByteDance owns two versions of basically the same app. In the U.S. we have TikTok, used by an estimated 170 million people, while in China they have Douyin, home to more than 700 million active users. Despite having the same parent company, TikTok and Douyin function as separate worlds. Now, as TikTok simmers in political hot water, the differences between the two apps are under a microscope. To get to the bottom of what sets these sister apps apart, Marketplace's Lily Jamali spoke with Marketplace's China correspondent, Jennifer Pak, about why ByteDance has this system in the first place.