China is not only one of the largest and fastest-growing economies in the world but also a key player in the global network marketing market. The MLM industry in China offers attractive opportunities for business growth, yet it also has many specific features that are essential to understand before entering this market.

How network marketing in China is developing

A vast consumer market, powerful manufacturing capacities, rapid digital technology advancements, and unique cultural characteristics have all contributed to the active development of the MLM business in China. As of today, the country ranks 4th among the leading global markets for network marketing.

According to the annual report by the World Federation of Direct Selling Associations (WFDSA), in 2023, the total revenue of the industry of direct selling and multi-level marketing in China exceeded $15 billion.

Favorable conditions for network marketing in China are largely shaped by the unique characteristics of the local mentality. Chinese culture places a high value on collectivism—teamwork and mutual support are of great importance here. Additionally, Chinese people are known for their persistence and willingness to work hard to achieve success. All these factors simplify the creation of a cohesive and productive MLM partner network.

Network marketing in China is also flourishing due to the rapid expansion of various digital platforms and internet penetration. According to Statista, more than 64% of the population makes online purchases, and the most popular app is WeChat. Through this app, people in China meet, communicate with friends, book tickets, and make and pay for purchases. It serves as one of the primary tools for developing MLM businesses in China, as it allows easy interaction with the target audience and attracts new customers or partners.

Legality of MLM business in China

Multi-level marketing in China first appeared in the early 1990s, but it received negative reactions due to the rise of fraudsters who created numerous financial pyramids disguised as MLM companies. These financial scams led to a complete ban on the MLM model in 1998.

In 2005, the Chinese government passed a new law, which served as the foundation for the legalization of network marketing in the country. However, the MLM industry in China is subject to very strict legal regulations. Entrepreneurs looking to develop network marketing businesses in China must adhere to numerous rules. Some of the key regulations include:

  1. Every MLM company in China must submit an application to the Ministry of Commerce under the State Council to obtain a license for conducting direct selling activities.

  2. Network marketing companies are required to conduct comprehensive training for all recruited partners and then issue them a "sales agent" certificate—an official permit for conducting sales.

  3. Joining the company's partner structure and participating in its training must not require any payment from individuals.

  4. MLM companies can build a multi-level distributor network, but they are not allowed to pay commissions on a large number of levels. The structure's leader can only receive a percentage of sales turnover from one referral level.

  5. A mandatory requirement for product sales is its high quality. Otherwise, the MLM company will not receive a license, and the product will not be allowed for sale.

All these regulations differ significantly from the generally accepted standards of organizing network marketing businesses. However, despite the strict legal framework, dozens of local and globally renowned MLM companies are currently thriving in China.

Top MLM companies in China

Exploring the local MLM industry, we have identified the most successful Chinese network marketing companies that have achieved impressive revenues and are actively growing in the global market. Among them are:

  1. Infinitus

Infinitus specializes in dietary supplements, immune-boosting beverages, and other beauty and health products based on Chinese herbs. The company strives to improve people's quality of life worldwide by combining modern technology with traditional Chinese medicine to create top-quality products. Infinitus is currently expanding successfully in China, Canada, Kazakhstan, Malaysia, and other countries, with an annual revenue of $3.5 billion.

  1. JoyMain International

JoyMain International is a Chinese MLM company that produces dietary supplements, vitamin complexes, cosmetics, water filters, massagers, and other products. JoyMain’s mission is to help people achieve success in various aspects of life by offering high-quality products and attractive business opportunities for everyone. This approach has helped the company attract over 500,000 partners in 50 countries and reach an annual revenue of $1.3 billion.

  1. Perfect China

Perfect China offers dietary supplements, skincare products, cleaning supplies, and a wide range of household items. The company places a strong emphasis on using natural ingredients in the development of its unique and patented products. By combining traditional Chinese values with modern business practices, Perfect China has built a strong community of customers and partners worldwide, achieving an annual sales volume of $1.25 billion.

  1. Sunhope

Sunhope is a Chinese MLM company specializing in dietary supplements, skincare products, cleaning supplies, and other household goods. Sunhope adheres to the principles of honesty, stability, and reliability, offering high-quality products to its customers and providing favorable and transparent partnership conditions. Thanks to this approach, the company has gained trust in 20 countries, attracted over 400,000 partners, and reached an annual revenue of $1.2 billion.

  1. New Era Health

New Era Health produces natural skincare products, dietary supplements, vitamins, and other health-strengthening products. The company collaborates closely with various research institutes to develop the best products for its customers. New Era Health also offers attractive bonuses for partners, distributing about 68% of its revenue within its partner network. Currently, the company's products are available in 14 countries, with an annual revenue of $1 billion.

Summary

Network marketing in China is one of the most promising markets for MLM business development, although it comes with its own unique features and challenges. Success in this region largely depends on an MLM company’s ability to adapt to the distinct legal, cultural, and economic conditions. By combining the right strategies with high-quality products and a strong software platform, you can successfully grow your multi-level marketing business in China.