A number of Chinese applications that were previously prohibited in India have re-emerged in the market. At least 36 of these applications, encompassing categories such as gaming, shopping, entertainment, and file sharing, are now available on both the Apple App Store and Google Play Store. Some have returned with slight modifications in their branding, while others have changed their developers or licensing agreements.

Chinese Apps Returning with New Names and Owners

In 2020, India imposed a ban on 267 Chinese applications due to security concerns, which included well-known platforms like TikTok, ShareIt, WeChat, and Shein. A subsequent wave of bans occurred in 2022, impacting applications such as PUBG and Garena Free Fire. These restrictions were a response to escalating tensions between India and China. However, with evolving circumstances, several of these applications have made their way back into the Indian market.

Among the returning applications is Xender, a file-sharing service, which is now listed on the Apple App Store as “Xender: File Share, Share Music,” although it is still not available on the Google Play Store. Other applications that have re-entered the market include streaming services MangoTV and Youku, the shopping application Taobao, and the dating platform Tantan. While MangoTV continues to use its original name, Taobao has been rebranded as Mobile Taobao, and Tantan is now known as TanTan – Asian Dating App.

Shein and Tantan Take Different Routes

Certain applications have adopted different strategies to re-establish their presence in India. Shein, which was banned in 2020, has re-launched through a licensing agreement with Reliance Retail. Reports indicate that all Shein products sold in India will be produced locally, in accordance with economic policies. The application, now named “SHEIN India Fast Fashion,” was launched on February 1 and is currently operational in select cities, with plans for broader expansion. Reliance also aims to incorporate Shein's products into its Ajio platform.

Tantan, a dating application akin to Tinder, has made its return to both the Apple App Store and Google Play Store. The iOS version is now associated with TanTan Cultural Development (Beijing), while the Android version is managed by Tantan Hong Kong Limited.

PUBG and Other Gaming Apps Make a Comeback

PUBG, a prominent game impacted by regulatory bans, was taken down from app stores in 2020. It made a comeback in 2021 as BattleGrounds Mobile India (BGMI) but encountered another ban in 2022. Following negotiations with regulatory bodies, BGMI was restored in 2023.

The emergence of these rebranded and repackaged applications signifies a change in the approach of Chinese platforms re-entering the Indian market, with some opting for strategic alliances while others pursue rebranding efforts to adhere to local regulations.

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