NARS orgasm collection: Shanghai O2O case study
An on-the-ground examination of cosmetic brand Nars' recent product launch in Shanghai. What global brands can learn about O2O initiatives.
China Factory Visits & On-Site Audits: The Complete Buyer's Guide
A complete guide to China factory visits and on-site audits — covering visit preparation, inspection checklists, supplier evaluation criteria, cultural etiquette, and intercity travel.
Alibaba.com vs 1688: China Sourcing Guide — Logistics, QC & the ecommerce china 2 1 Landscape
A data-driven comparison of Alibaba.com vs 1688.com covering shipping methods, third-party quality inspection, Trade Assurance, and negotiation for international buyers sourcing from China in 2026.
5 Beauty Brands That Could Improve In China
In this article, Hot Pot take a look at 5 beauty brands that are not yet fulfilling their potential in China.
China Sourcing Logistics: FOB vs CIF vs DDP — A Complete Guide for International Buyers
A practical guide to Incoterms for China imports — when to use FOB, CIF, or DDP, how to find a freight forwarder, the real sea freight timeline, and the hidden fees that can inflate your LCL bill by 50-80%.
Are UK retailers doing enough to attract Chinese customers this Lunar New Year?
The Lunar New Year, taking place this year on 5 February and marking the start of the Year of the Pig, is a huge deal for Chinese consumers. Hot Pot asks, are UK retailers doing enough?
Third-Party Quality Inspection for China Sourcing: A Complete Buyer's Guide
Everything foreign buyers need to know about third-party quality inspection when sourcing from China — PSI vs Factory Audit, AQL standards, pricing tiers, and how to avoid the $28,000 scam that caught Thermal Grizzly.
Is Active Lifestyle the New Luxury in China? 2026 Ecommerce Trends
China's Sports & Outdoor ecommerce market reached $40bn in 2025, driven by niche growth and local brand dominance. How does it affect global brands?
Negotiating with Chinese Suppliers: A Complete Guide to Pricing, MOQ, and Contracts
Master Chinese supplier negotiations — crack the 20-30% pricing gap between factory gate and sales quote, cut MOQ by 50-60%, and structure contracts that prevent the $28,000 copper-steel substitution scam.
Case Study: Kailas | The Chinese Outdoor Brand Surpassing Arc’teryx
Kailas is transforming China's outdoor market with innovative design, cultural storytelling and strong community ties, challenging global brands like Arc’teryx.
How to Pay Chinese Suppliers Safely: Trade Assurance, TT, LC & Payment Protection
A guide to secure payment when sourcing from China — Trade Assurance limits, TT wire schedules, LC costs, credit card chargeback strategies, and the layered protection system experienced buyers rely on.
China Playbook Unlocked: Nike’s Cantonese Soup Masterclass
Nike's soup campaign with Su Bingtian in Guangzhou showcases the power of deep cultural storytelling and hyperlocalisation