Core Viewpoint - The ongoing rivalry between Wanglaoji and Jia Duo Bao, two major herbal tea brands in China, has escalated from domestic disputes to international markets, highlighting the challenges and strategic choices both companies face in their globalization efforts [1][2][3]. Group 1: Historical Context - The conflict between Wanglaoji and Jia Duo Bao dates back over a decade, marked by the "red can dispute," which has become a classic case in Chinese business history [1]. - Recent tensions reignited on September 30, when Jia Duo Bao claimed victory in international trademark disputes, asserting ownership of the "Wanglaoji" trademark in over 60 countries [3][4]. - Wanglaoji responded by accusing Jia Duo Bao of maliciously registering trademarks abroad and announced its own trademark registrations in over 100 countries by September 2025 [3][4]. Group 2: Strategic Moves - Both companies are targeting international markets as domestic growth stagnates, with Wanglaoji and Jia Duo Bao recognizing the necessity of expanding overseas to seek new growth opportunities [2][10]. - Wanglaoji has been actively promoting its brand internationally since 2013, establishing a presence in the U.S. and launching its international brand "WALOVI" in 2023 [9][10]. - Jia Duo Bao has also made strides in international markets, establishing production bases in Malaysia and signing agreements for further expansion [9]. Group 3: Market Dynamics - The herbal tea market in China has shown signs of saturation, with retail sales fluctuating since 2016 and a growth rate of approximately 20% over the past decade [10][13]. - Both companies face competition from emerging beverage brands and traditional tea products, which have diversified consumer preferences and fragmented the market [14][15]. - The global plant-based beverage market is experiencing significant growth, with a compound annual growth rate of nearly 10% from 2019 to 2024, presenting opportunities for both brands [13]. Group 4: Internal Challenges - The prolonged legal battles between Wanglaoji and Jia Duo Bao have diverted resources and attention from product innovation and market expansion, leading to stagnation in their respective growth strategies [17][18]. - Both companies are struggling to diversify beyond the herbal tea category, which limits their potential in international markets [17]. - A collaborative approach to promote "Chinese herbal tea" as a category could benefit both companies and enhance their global presence, rather than continuing their competitive rivalry [17][18].