HSBC survey finds that quality matters

To better cater to the increasingly diverse and sophisticated demands of Chinese consumers, global businesses see quality products, partnerships and millennials as key, according to the latest survey by HSBC.

The survey, released on Tuesday during the China International Import Expo in Shanghai, polled 1,205 companies in 11 key global economies that export to China or are considering doing so. About 37 percent of respondents said distinctive or superior products and services are the main factor that will boost their sales in China. European respondents attached greater importance to product quality, with 45 percent ticking it as the key influencer.

Another 30 percent of exporters to China highlighted the rising affluence and increasing disposable income of Chinese consumers as the key catalyst for their companies' sales growth.