In this episode of The Negotiation podcast, host Todd Embley is joined by Dean Diabate, an expert in the world of China e-commerce and Africa/EU-China trade relations.

From his early career beginnings in Paris, Dean recounts his initial venture into China's burgeoning e-commerce sector, the pivotal transitions that led him to Alibaba, and the lessons he learned along the way.

A significant part of the conversation focuses on the opportunities for African industries on Chinese e-commerce platforms, which Dean helped drive as part of Alibaba’s eWTP program. Dean also discusses his experiences managing business development for the pet, beauty, and personal categories at Tmall Global, highlighting key consumption trends and growth opportunities for international brands in these categories. He also elaborates on why cross-border e-commerce has become a crucial channel for tapping into China’s vast consumer market.

Dean then addresses the major changes currently reshaping the e-commerce landscape and offers strategic advice on how brands can succeed in this evolving market. Finally, the discussion turns to his relocation to Bali, his thoughts on Indonesia's rising economy, and the vibrant e-commerce scene in Indonesia that is increasingly attractive to global brands.

Discussion Points:

Dean's transition from Paris to China and his early career milestones

His experiences and roles at Alibaba Group

Opportunities for African industries in Chinese e-commerce

Trends and growth in the Pet, Beauty, and Personal Care sectors on Tmall Global

The rise of cross-border e-commerce as a strategy for entering China

Current transformations in the global e-commerce landscape

Dean’s relocation to Bali and his current projects

Indonesia’s economic ascent and its e-commerce potential

In this episode of The Negotiation podcast, host Todd Embley is joined by Tom Parker, National CEO of the Australia China Business Council (ACBC), for an insightful discussion on the evolving dynamics of Australia-China relations and the expanding opportunities for Australian businesses in China.

Tom begins by introducing ACBC, outlining its mission, membership, and the vital role it plays in supporting Australian businesses looking to enter or expand their presence in the Chinese market. He discusses recent positive shifts in the Australia-China relationship, including the significant impact of the Australian Prime Minister's state visit to China in November, and the recent removal of Chinese tariffs on Australian wine which marked a pivotal moment in improving trade relations.

The conversation then turns to the broader implications of these warming ties, identifying key growth opportunities for Australian companies in sectors beyond wine. Tom highlights the enduring popularity and positive reputation of Australian consumer brands in China, delving into why products from 'down under' resonate so well with Chinese consumers and which sectors are currently thriving.

From a domestic perspective, Tom shares insights into the sentiment of the Australian business community towards China, reflecting on the challenges and optimism prevalent among entrepreneurs and corporations. He also discusses the overarching message that ACBC is promoting within Australia to foster a supportive environment for bilateral cooperation.

Discussion Points:

• Overview of the Australia China Business Council and its mission
• Recent developments in Australia-China relations and their impact on trade
• The strategic significance of the Australian Prime Minister’s recent visit to China
• Growth opportunities for Australian companies in China post-tariff removal
• The enduring popularity of Australian consumer brands in China
• Sector-specific success stories of Australian brands in China
• Current sentiment among the Australian business community towards China
• Key messages from ACBC to Australian businesses

In this episode of The Negotiation podcast, host Todd Embley has an engaging conversation with Grace Wu, Director of Business for the Australia-China Culture and Language Advisory (ACCLA) and a notable lifestyle and education influencer on Little Red Book. Grace brings a unique perspective on the cultural and educational exchange between Australia and China, alongside insights from her influential presence on one of China's premier social media platforms.

Grace shares the story and mission of ACCLA, detailing the organization's efforts to bridge cultural and language gaps between Australia and China. She provides insightful data on the number of Chinese individuals pursuing studies and careers in Australia and places this in the context of global trends. Furthermore, Grace delves into the cultural adjustments and challenges faced by new arrivals in Australia, highlighting surprising and noteworthy observations.

Moving beyond her professional role, Grace discusses her journey into this field and her impactful work as an influencer on Little Red Book. She offers a glimpse into the content she shares with her audience, focusing on frequency and themes. Grace also provides an overview of Little Red Book, comparing it to Western social media platforms and discussing its unique place in the digital landscape.

The conversation also touches on the demographics of Grace's audience, both in Australia and China, and comments on recent Western interest in Chinese-style advice through Little Red Book.

Discussion Points:

• The mission and services offered by the ACCLA
• Trends in Chinese individuals going to Australia for study and work
• Cultural challenges faced by new arrivals in Australia
• Grace Wu's personal journey to her current roles
• Her experience and strategy as a Little Red Book influencer
• An introduction to Little Red Book and its comparison to Western platforms
• The geographic distribution of Grace's audience
• Western interest in Chinese netizens' style advice on Little Red Book
• The current state and future prospects of Australia-China relations