amplifyASIA Podcast

Acclime

Welcome to amplifyASIA by Acclime – the podcast that cuts through the complexity of doing business in Greater China and the APAC region. We bring you bold insights, real-world strategies, and expert guidance on market entry, cross-border expansion, compliance and governance, everything you need to stay ahead in Asia’s fastest-growing markets. Subscribe now and start amplifying your growth today!

  1. 5d ago

    Beyong the hype: Rethinking localisation and global supply chains in China (Ep.15)

    When expanding into Greater China, many Western companies rely on outdated assumptions about speed, manufacturing, and local culture. To achieve long-term success, leaders must learn how to read between the lines and adapt to the fast-evolving landscape on the ground. In this episode, our host Jacob Ketcher sits down with Jochen Zhu -Schleiss, an industrial leader with over 21 years of experience in Greater China. Jochen offers a rare perspective on what it actually takes to localize a business, navigate regional diversity, and build lasting professional relationships in one of the world's most complex markets. Key takeaways: The Reality of China's Manufacturing Shift: Why China is no longer a low-cost manufacturing hub, but rather a leader in high-value, high-quality production. Protecting Intellectual Property: Essential steps for registering trademarks, handling licensing, and safeguarding your products. The Cost-Cutting Trap: Why defining localization purely as an exercise in cutting costs can dilute your company's identity and destroy employee productivity. Relationship First, Sales Second: How building trust-based connections with local R&D, quality, and procurement departments serves as the ultimate business door-opener. Leading with Respect: Turnaround tactics for fostering employee retention, motivation, and loyalty by treating every level of staff with equal dignity Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Johan Schleis and his China journey 10:10 Protecting intellectual property and trademarks in China 11:04 China plus one strategy and manufacturing shifts 12:54 Opportunities in China's healthcare and elderly care markets 14:06 Social commerce and branding in China 14:45 Challenges of localizing in China and maintaining quality 17:09 Overcoming challenges in company restructuring and localization 18:54 The importance of understanding Chinese business culture 19:47 How to build trust and loyalty with Chinese employees 23:50 Principles for foreign leaders in China 26:48 The future of China as a home for long-term expatriates

    49 min

  2. Jun 17

    Winning the Banking Game in Hong Kong (Ep.14)

    Opening a corporate bank account in Hong Kong can delay your business by weeks, or even months, if done wrong. In our first-ever video podcast, our Hong Kong banking expert Po Chan shares insider strategies to help you fast-track approval and stay operational from day one. Discover the “dual track strategy” combining virtual banks for speed and traditional banks for credibility, plus practical tips to avoid rejection, prepare the right documents, and build a strong banking relationship for long-term growth. Whether you're entering Hong Kong or scaling across APAC, this episode is your blueprint for smarter, faster corporate banking. Chapters – Episode 14 00:00 – Welcome to the New Era of AmplifyAsia 00:57 – Understanding Corporate Bank Accounts in Hong Kong 02:48 – Key Differences of Virtual vs. Traditional Banks: 05:08 – The Dual Track Approach to Banking 07:06 – Building a Business Proof Portfolio 12:32 – Common Pitfalls in Bank Applications 16:41 – Industries Facing Banking Challenges 18:32 – Maintaining Your Bank Account 20:49 – Top Takeaways for Successful Banking Speak to our experts | AcclimeOur team is ready to discuss your business needs and answer any questions you may have. Use our quick contact form to get in touch with us. We will get back to you within one business day. Find us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLUEe0Yv4v1Ck

    24 min

  3. May 11

    From Chaos to Credibility: B2B Marketing in China’s New Era (Ep. 13)

    China’s B2B marketing landscape has transformed dramatically, with platforms, buyer expectations, and compliance rules evolving faster than ever. For foreign companies, the challenge is no longer waiting for stability; it’s learning to thrive in constant change. In this episode, our host Jacob Ketcher speaks with Mike Golden, Founder and CEO of Brandigo China, one of the first foreign-owned marketing agencies in China. Drawing on over two decades of experience, Mike shares how trust, localisation, and smart content strategies are redefining success for B2B brands in 2026. We will discuss: Why “waiting for stability” is no longer viable for B2B brands in China How high‑velocity trust helps companies establish credibility in a low‑trust society The rise of Xiaohongshu and Douyin as unexpected B2B platforms alongside WeChat Generative engine optimisation (GEO) and how AI‑driven search is reshaping discoverability Compliance with China’s PIPL and why outdated outreach tactics can damage your brand Practical steps for market entry that foreign firms often overlook, from positioning to demand validation Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Mike Golden and Brandigo 01:05 Mike's Journey from Japan to China and Founding Brandigo 02:03 The Evolution of B2B Marketing in China Over 25 Years 02:51 Key Changes in Chinese B2B Buyer Behavior 03:21 Trust as a Constant in Chinese Business Culture 04:15 Why Relying on Stability is a Liability in B2B Marketing 05:41 The Rise of Xiaohongshu (Red Note) as a B2B Platform 06:36 Building a Social Media Portfolio for B2B in China 07:36 The Role of Localized Content and Websites 08:50 AI, Search, and Content Optimization in China 10:25 Gaming the AI Search System and Content Strategies 11:21 Data Privacy, PIPL, and Risks in China 12:15 Preparing for Market Entry: Legal and Strategic Steps 13:43 The Importance of Positioning and Key Messaging 15:03 Opportunities and Choosing the Right Partner in China 16:25 Closing Remarks and Resources

    17 min

  4. Apr 22

    China in Focus: Winning in the New Compliance Era (Ep.12)

    China’s business landscape has matured rapidly, bringing greater transparency, stricter compliance, and higher expectations for foreign companies. While the environment is more demanding, it also rewards firms that adapt with clear strategy, local execution, and regulatory discipline. In this episode, our host Jacob Ketcher speaks with Maxime Van ’t Klooster, Partner at Acclime China, about how compliance, digitalisation, and localisation are reshaping the realities of doing business in China. Drawing on over a decade of advising multinationals and SMEs, Maxime shares practical insights on market entry, restructuring, supply‑chain control, and aligning with policy direction under China’s 15th Five‑Year Plan. We discuss: How digitalisation is increasing transparency and reducing tolerance for errorWhy compliance has become a strategic advantage for foreign companiesThe growing importance of localisation and value‑chain contributionHow to navigate opportunity and uncertainty in today’s geopolitical climateTune in for a pragmatic conversation on how foreign businesses can stay resilient, compliant, and competitive in China’s next phase. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to China's Business Landscape 04:06 Evolution of Compliance in China 10:37 Critical Factors for Entering the Chinese Market 14:10 The Role of Technology in Compliance 19:05 Opportunities in China's 15th Five-Year Plan 24:15 Navigating Geopolitical Shifts for Success

    29 min

  5. Apr 9

    Inside China’s 15th Five‑Year Plan: What Global Businesses Need to Know (Ep.11)

    China’s 15th Five‑Year Plan sets the country’s policy direction through 2030, shaping priorities in technology, industry, and geopolitics. For international businesses, understanding this blueprint is essential to anticipate regulatory shifts, localization requirements, and new growth opportunities. Join our expert guest, Dr. Jost Wübbeke, Managing Partner and Co‑founder of Sinolytics, as he unpacks what the new plan really signals. With over two decades advising governments and multinationals on Chinese industrial policy, Dr. Wübbeke explains how themes like self‑sufficiency, securitization, and “new quality productive forces” are redefining the operating environment. We will also cover: The plan’s distinct priorities and the rise of self‑sufficiency in technology, energy, food, and raw materialsHow securitization and new regulatory standards are reshaping economic policy and market accessThe role of “new quality productive forces” and frontier technologies, with AI as a central driverThe growing need for localization and the impact of Chinese standard‑setting on foreign firms Tune in for clear, practical insights into China’s latest strategic roadmap, and learn how to position your business for resilience and growth in this new era. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to China's 15th Five-Year Plan 04:56 Understanding the Five-Year Plan's Significance 10:01 Shifts in Policy and Priorities 15:01 The Role of Self-Sufficiency in the New Plan 20:10 Technological Advancements and New Economic Models 24:58 Localization Strategies for Foreign Companies 30:11 Navigating Standards and Regulations in China 35:10 Conclusion and Future Outlook

    38 min

  6. Mar 27

    Inside Asia's fund administration landscape (Ep. 10)

    Episode 10 Asia’s fund administration market is changing rapidly. For fund managers looking to scale across Hong Kong, Singapore, and the wider region, understanding these differences has never been more important. With Acclime launching its Fund Administration Services in Hong Kong this April, this episode arrives at the perfect time for anyone wanting clarity on structures, compliance, and operational best practices.   Join our expert, Tony Tan - Senior Partner Outsourcing & Fund Administration as he breaks down the realities of fund administration across Asia. Tony shares what really happens behind the scenes, why fund administration is far more than bookkeeping, and how digital transformation is reshaping the industry. You will also learn how Hong Kong and Singapore compare as fund jurisdictions, and what that means for managers operating cross‑border. We will cover: How the fund administration market in Asia is evolvingKey differences between Hong Kong and Singapore fund structuresThe role and importance of offshore jurisdictionsCommon misconceptions about fund administrationService pillars every fund manager should understandHow digital platforms and automation are transforming fund operationsRegional support available for cross‑border fund managementTune in for clear, practical insights, and stay informed as Acclime expands its fund administration offering in Hong Kong this April. Chapters  00:00  Introduction to Fund Administration in Asia  03:33  Understanding Fund Administration Basics  06:38  Common Misconceptions in Fund Administration  08:59  Comparing Hong Kong and Singapore Fund Structures  11:00  The Role of Offshore Jurisdictions  13:45  Service Pillars of Fund Administration  16:53  Technological Innovations in Fund Administration  19:35  Cross-Border Fund Management Support  22:36  Quick Fire Round: Insights and Myths  24:17  Conclusion and Future Outlook

    25 min

  7. Mar 16

    Austria's 65-year journey in Asia: Strategies for success (Ep. 9)

    Episode 9 How do companies from a small but mighty European nation succeed in some of Asia’s most dynamic markets? In this episode, Jennifer Veigel, Austrian Trade Commissioner in Hong Kong and Macau, shares why Austria has thrived in the region for 65 years. From cultural nuances to market entry strategies and the power of Austria’s “hidden champions,” Jennifer offers practical advice for companies expanding into Hong Kong, Macau, and the Greater Bay Area. We cover: Austria’s long-standing presence in AsiaEffective market entry strategiesWhy cultural understanding drives better outcomesAustria’s niche innovators and “hidden champions”Partnership‑building, trust, and aligning expectationsOpportunities across Macau and the GBALearn more about ADVANTAGE AUSTRIA here: https://www.advantageaustria.org/ Chapters  00:00 Introduction to Advantage Austria and Its Role  04:23 Core Strengths of Austrian Companies in Asia  07:13 The Role of Advantage Austria as a Guide  10:19 Austrian Industries Active in Asia  13:13 Strategic Roles of Hong Kong and Macau  16:10 Opportunities for Austrian Companies in Macau  19:00 Cultural and Business Misunderstandings  21:49 Challenges for Austrian Companies in Asia  24:48 Navigating Market Dynamics and Local Insights  27:50 Strategic Long-Term Presence in Asia  32:53 The Essence of Being Present in Asia  33:04 Closing Thoughts and Future Engagements

    34 min

  8. Feb 25

    How Asia’s new risk landscape is changing due diligence for investors (Ep. 8)

    In this episode, we explore how Asia’s rapidly evolving risk environment is reshaping what investors must know before entering a deal. Traditional financial and legal checks are no longer sufficient. As geopolitical tensions rise, sanctions regimes tighten, and supply chains become more fragile, non‑financial risks from governance to reputation now play an important role in investment outcomes. To unpack these dynamics, our host Jacob Ketcher speaks with Morgan Stark, Head of Asia at global risk and intelligence consultancy S‑RM. Morgan shares firsthand insights into how investors are reassessing risk, why political and regulatory factors have become central to due diligence, and how outside‑in intelligence complements traditional diligence streams. He also offers a candid look at how sanctions, opaque counterparties, and on‑the‑ground realities can shape or derail a deal. This episode is essential listening for investors, corporate leaders, and advisers navigating Asia’s increasingly complex business landscape.

    26 min
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About

Welcome to amplifyASIA by Acclime – the podcast that cuts through the complexity of doing business in Greater China and the APAC region. We bring you bold insights, real-world strategies, and expert guidance on market entry, cross-border expansion, compliance and governance, everything you need to stay ahead in Asia’s fastest-growing markets. Subscribe now and start amplifying your growth today!

Information

  • Creator
    Acclime
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    15
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Acclime
  • Show Website
    amplifyASIA Podcast