Google a “very inconvenient” tool for Chinese-language searches
A key research executive has defected from Google China to Baidu, the country’s online search market leader, according to a report in The Financial Times this week.
The move represents the “first ever” switch by a senior Google employee to its local rival, and follows the US group’s decision at the end of last month to move its Chinese web search to its Hong Kong website, where it is not required to self-censor results.
The report says that Google is becoming a “very inconvenient” tool for Chinese-language searches, given that a number of Chinese characters now trigger browser errors – in whichever context they appear.
Web searches on google.com.hk have also suffered disruption by what analysts say is interference from the firewall which filters foreign internet content as it enters China’s telecoms network. There are also reports of moves by other Chinese websites to terminate co-operation with Google.
According to Li Zhi, a search expert at Beijing-based internet research firm, Analysys: “Google’s traffic from users in mainland China has dropped, and its Chinese online search advertising revenues have dropped as well.”
Global marketers need to be aware of such challenges in key country markets and incorporate such considerations into the marketing planning process. Localised SEO is one area with which Freedman can help, with its regional hubs offering valuable local knowledge and know-how – allowing you to focus on creating more effective international marketing strategies.
Tags: Global Brand
