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EVENT OVERVIEW
UK businesses looking to explore new international growth opportunities are invited to express their interest in joining the China Digital Commerce Trade Mission.
This event is organised by the **Department for Business, Innovation, Science & Trade (BIST) **with the vision to help experienced UK exporters understand and successfully navigate China's fast-moving digital retail landscape. Bringing together leading UK brands with some of China's most influential e-commerce platforms and digital commerce experts. The programme offers a unique opportunity to gain first-hand market insight, establish valuable commercial connections and develop a clear strategy for entering one of the world's largest consumer markets.
China's digital commerce ecosystem is unlike any other, with social commerce, livestream shopping and content-led purchasing shaping the way consumers discover and buy products. For businesses looking to expand internationally, understanding these platforms and consumer behaviours is essential.
The programme has been developed to equip participating brands with the knowledge, confidence and industry connections needed to approach the Chinese market with a well-informed strategy.
The trade mission begins with a pre-mission masterclass, led by experts with extensive experience of trading in China. The session will provide practical guidance on China's ecommerce landscape, digital platforms, consumer behaviour and commercial models, ensuring delegates are fully prepared before travelling.
Participants will then take part in a five-day trade mission across Shanghai, Hangzhou and Beijing, where they will meet directly with some of China's leading digital commerce businesses and marketplace operators.
The itinerary includes headquarters briefings with Alibaba's Tmall Global and JD Worldwide, alongside sessions with Douyin and Xiaohongshu (Little Red Book). Attendees will also visit a live-streaming studio, explore a bonded warehouse and cross-border fulfilment centre, and meet content agencies, KOL management studios and cross-border trade specialists.
Networking is another key part of the programme, with exclusive evening dinners bringing together UK brands already trading successfully in China, key opinion leaders (KOLs) and commercial partners. These sessions are designed to encourage knowledge sharing while helping delegates build meaningful relationships that can support future business growth.
By the end of the programme, delegates will have developed a practical understanding of China's digital commerce ecosystem and the major online channels shaping consumer purchasing behaviour.
Participants can also expect to leave with:
The trade mission is aimed at experienced UK exporters with an annual turnover of £5 million or more operating in the following sectors:
Senior representatives and business decision-makers are encouraged to apply.
Participation costs £1,000 + VAT, with delegates responsible for their own travel, accommodation and subsistence.
As places are limited, applications are being accepted as Expressions of Interest and participation will be by invitation only.
Businesses interested in taking part should submit their Expression of Interest by 4 September 2026.
For companies looking to accelerate their international growth and explore opportunities within the world's largest ecommerce market, this trade mission offers a unique opportunity to gain market knowledge, establish valuable partnerships and develop the confidence to succeed in China.
Unlock exclusive access to a diverse range of retailers eager to connect with suppliers. Inquire now to discover how our membership can elevate your business.