How Foreign Buyers Can Use WeChat for Business in China

For international buyers aiming to source Chinese products or expand into the Chinese market, mastering How to use WeChat is the key to unlocking the entire business supply chain. Furthermore, knowing how to verify a WeChat account is the foundation for smooth communication.

WeChat has long been the primary communication tool for business people in China. Whether it’s stall owners, factory managers, or freight forwarders, everyone expects to coordinate business via WeChat. GZWM, a platform dedicated to bridging the gap between foreign buyers and Chinese markets, not only aggregates contact info for stalls across China but also solves the connectivity issues related to WeChat. This guide will help you quickly master the essentials of using WeChat for business.

The Core Reason: Why Do Chinese Suppliers Prefer WeChat Over Email?

Foreign buyers often wonder: Why do Chinese business people prefer WeChat instead of Email? The core reason lies in efficiency and convenience, which perfectly matches the fast-paced nature of Chinese commerce.

1. Real-Time Speed: WeChat supports instant communication with high delivery rates and immediate responses. Whether you are inquiring about stock, confirming order details, or coordinating logistics, you get instant feedback. Email often suffers from time lags, which cannot keep up with the speed of the wholesale market.
2. All-in-One Functionality: WeChat allows you to send text, voice notes, photos, videos, and files directly. You can visually inspect goods or check order receipts instantly. You can even use Video Calls to virtually tour the factory or inspect product quality in real-time—something email simply cannot do.
3. Relationship Building: WeChat is more social. Chinese business culture relies heavily on building long-term relationships (Guanxi). Follow-ups, after-sales support, and repeat orders are all handled within this single ecosystem, creating a complete business loop.

Therefore, if you want to source smoothly from Chinese stalls and factories, getting on WeChat is non-negotiable.

Practical Guide: How to Use WeChat—Registration, Adding Friends, and Translation

Mastering the core functions is the first step. Here is a breakdown of Registration, Adding Contacts, and using the Translation feature.

• Registration & Verifying WeChat Account:
  Foreign buyers can sign up using their mobile number. Select your region code, enter your number, and get the SMS verification code. However, a major hurdle is security verification. The system may ask you to “Verify WeChat Account” by having an existing WeChat user scan a QR code for you (Friend Verification). In some cases, you may need to upload valid ID documents to ensure the account is not restricted.
• Adding Friends (Suppliers):
  There are two main ways to add a Chinese business partner: searching by their WeChat ID/Phone Number or scanning their QR Code. The GZWM website provides verified WeChat IDs or QR codes for stalls across Guangzhou.
  Pro Tip: When sending a friend request, always add a note identifying yourself (e.g., “Buyer from USA – Looking for Dresses”). This ensures the supplier accepts your request quickly.
• Using the Translation Feature:
  Language barriers are the biggest fear for foreign buyers, but WeChat has a built-in solution. In the chat interface, simply long-press any text message, and a menu will pop up. Select “Translate” to convert the Chinese text into your native language (English, Spanish, etc.). To send messages in Chinese, you can use an external translation app, copy the text, and paste it into WeChat. You can also change the interface language in “Settings – General – Language” for easier navigation.

The Solution: Can’t Connect via WeChat? GZWM Has You Covered

If you are currently unable to register or verify your WeChat account, don’t worry—you can still connect with Chinese stalls. GZWM addresses this pain point with two dedicated solutions:

1. WhatsApp Alternatives: We have supplemented contact information for premium merchants with WhatsApp numbers, allowing you to use a tool you are already familiar with.
2. Verification Assistance: GZWM offers a WeChat verification assistance service. Our professional team can guide you through the registration and verification process to ensure you can start using WeChat smoothly.

Whether you need a WhatsApp contact or help verifying your WeChat, simply submit a request through the GZWM customer service channel, and we will respond immediately.

WeChat is the vital bridge connecting foreign buyers to Chinese business. Mastering How to use WeChat and resolving the verify WeChat account hurdle will drastically improve your sourcing efficiency.

GZWM is here to help. We not only provide this user guide but also aggregate premium resources from major wholesale markets like Shisanhang, Guihuagang, and Shahe, covering clothing, leather goods, home decor, and more. Log in to GZWM today to get the contacts you need—whether via WeChat or WhatsApp—and let us help you expand your business in China!