China: second-tier cities offer first rate sales opportunities

China’s second-tier cities, many of which have more residents than the largest U.S. cities of Los Angeles or New York, boast growing populations, increasing disposable incomes, upscale retail development, savvy e-commerce customers and improved cold chain and distribution networks. China now has over 600 cities that fall somewhere within the tier system, and many of these cities are untapped treasures for U.S. agricultural exporters. U.S. exporters are encouraged to develop a second-tier marketing strategy that works well for their products. This report outlines a four part strategy that will benefit those seeking to enter these dynamic new markets. Each city is unique, so exporters are encouraged to inquire about specific opportunities and regional variability with FAS Agricultural Trade Offices in Guangzhou, Chengdu, Shanghai, Beijing and Shenyang.