If you’re a YouTube influencer based in Ireland looking to level up your brand game, teaming up with Chinese brands is a golden ticket. The China market is massive, and with over a billion people online, brands there are keen as mustard to tap into fresh, authentic voices—especially from English-speaking creators like us here in Ireland.
But let’s not beat around the bush. Working with China-based brands isn’t just about slapping your name on a product and calling it a day. It takes savvy, understanding of both markets, and a fair bit of hustle. In this article, I’ll break down how Irish YouTubers can crack the China collab code, what to watch out for, and how to make it work like a charm.
📢 Ireland Meets China on YouTube Brand Collabs
YouTube is king in Ireland when it comes to video content. Unlike China, where YouTube is blocked and replaced by platforms like Bilibili and Douyin, Irish influencers still rely on YouTube to showcase their content globally. This is a big plus for Chinese brands wanting to reach English-speaking audiences with genuine, relatable content.
Irish influencers like Jack Harrington (the tech reviewer) or Aoife Walsh (lifestyle vlogger) have shown how local voices can resonate globally. Chinese brands, whether tech giants or emerging fashion labels, are increasingly scouting creators like these to push their products abroad.
💡 Practical Ways to Collaborate with Brands in China
1. Understand Payment and Contracts
Irish creators get paid in euros (€), so sorting payments with Chinese brands requires some know-how. Most Chinese brands prefer WeChat Pay or Alipay for domestic transactions, but for international influencer payments, platforms like Payoneer or direct bank transfers are common. Make sure your contracts clearly state payment terms in euros and include clauses on currency fluctuations—these can eat into your pay if you’re not careful.
2. Nail the Legal and Cultural Nuances
Ireland and China have very different legal systems and cultural expectations around marketing. Irish influencers should insist on clear contracts that cover content rights, exclusivity, and usage. Also, be aware of China’s strict advertising laws—brands will expect you to avoid political topics or anything that might offend Chinese sensibilities.
Culturally, Chinese brands adore storytelling and emotional connection. Instead of a hard sell, Irish YouTubers should craft content that weaves in product benefits subtly, making the audience feel the vibe rather than pushing product features outright.
3. Use Local Agents or Platforms
Navigating China’s digital ecosystem isn’t straightforward. Irish influencers can work through agencies or platforms like BaoLiba, which specialise in cross-border influencer marketing. These service providers understand the language barriers, payment logistics, and marketing trends on both sides, making collaborations smoother.
For instance, Irish influencer Sarah Flynn recently teamed up with a Shanghai-based skincare brand via BaoLiba, which handled contract negotiations, payments, and content approvals, letting Sarah focus on creating killer videos.
📊 Data Insights on Ireland-China Influencer Marketing (May 2025)
As of May 2025, influencer marketing in Ireland is booming, with an estimated 60% of brands allocating budgets to global collaborations. Data from BaoLiba shows a 35% increase year-on-year in Ireland-China brand partnerships, underlining growing trust and demand.
Irish YouTubers with niche audiences—think eco-friendly products or tech gadgets—are especially in demand. Chinese brands want those authentic voices who can speak confidently to Western consumers while keeping content fun and engaging.
❗ Common Pitfalls to Avoid
- Ignoring Time Zones: China is 8 hours ahead of Ireland. Communication delays can stall projects, so set clear expectations upfront.
- Language Barriers: Contracts and brand briefs often come in Mandarin. Always get translations done professionally to avoid misunderstandings.
- Payment Scams: Unfortunately, some smaller Chinese brands may delay payments or disappear. Always use escrow services or platforms like BaoLiba which guarantee payments.
- Content Approval Delays: Chinese brands tend to want content approval before publishing. Factor in extra time so you’re not caught off guard.
### People Also Ask
How can Irish YouTubers find Chinese brand collaborations?
Start by joining influencer marketing platforms like BaoLiba that specialise in cross-border deals. Networking on LinkedIn and industry events focused on China trade also helps.
What payment methods do Chinese brands use for international influencers?
Most common are Payoneer, PayPal, and international wire transfers. WeChat Pay and Alipay are usually domestic-only, so confirm with the brand beforehand.
Do Irish influencers need to speak Mandarin to work with Chinese brands?
Not necessarily. Many Chinese brands have English-speaking marketing teams or use agencies for communication. However, learning some basic Mandarin phrases never hurts.
Final Thoughts
Collaborating with brands in China is a massive opportunity for Irish YouTube influencers willing to put in the legwork. It’s not just about the bag of cash (although that’s a nice perk), but about building a bridge between two massive markets. With right contracts, payment plans, and cultural smarts, you can create partnerships that open doors to global audiences.
BaoLiba will continue updating Ireland’s influencer marketing trends, so stay tuned and keep hustling. The China-Ireland influencer game is only getting started, and it’s ripe for the taking!
