Why Should Businesses in China Choose Matomo Over Google Analytics?

Data security in China has become one of the most critical strategic priorities for modern businesses. Whether a local enterprise or a multinational company operating in the country, every organization must comply with increasingly strict laws and regulatory requirements. With the enforcement of the Data Security Law (DSL) and the Personal Information Protection Law (PIPL), safeguarding data is no longer optional. It has become a legal necessity.

Yet many organizations continue to rely on Google Analytics (GA), often overlooking the risks. Intrusive cookie consent banners can lead to user drop-offs, turning GA from a valuable asset into a potential liability in China. This risk is further compounded by compliance challenges related to the lack of data sovereignty.

Matomo, in contrast, aligns seamlessly with the principles of data security in China. It provides full data ownership, ensures compliance with local laws, strengthens data protection, and builds customer trust. For businesses, this transforms analytics from a potential risk into a strategic advantage in the Chinese market.

Matomo Meets the Data Security Needs of Businesses in China

One of the biggest issues with Google Analytics is data ownership. According to its terms of service, Google retains the right to keep and use data collected through its platform for its own advertising and analytics purposes. In practice, this means the valuable user behavior data your company works hard to collect does not fully belong to you but is also absorbed into Google’s ecosystem.

This raises not only privacy concerns but also questions of trust. When customers discover that their personal data is being used for advertising, the reputation of your business can suffer lasting damage. Studies show that more than 70 percent of consumers would stop working with a company if they learned their sensitive information had been shared without permission.

Matomo offers a different path. It guarantees complete data ownership and ensures that all information is used exclusively for your organization’s analysis and decision-making. Nothing is shared or repurposed. For businesses operating in China, this not only enhances operational efficiency. It also demonstrates to customers that data security is a top priority.

Matomo Data Storage Complies with China’s Legal Requirements

For businesses in China, data sovereignty and storage location are central to compliance and trust. With Google Analytics, companies cannot decide where their data will ultimately be stored. Google’s data centers are spread across the United States, Europe, and Asia, which makes it impossible to know the final storage location or to control cross-border transfers.

Matomo provides the flexibility that organizations in China require. Companies can choose to self-host Matomo, keeping all analytics data on servers located within China. This approach ensures full compliance with the Data Security Law and the Personal Information Protection Law. Those who prefer a managed service can choose Matomo Cloud. In this option, data is hosted in Germany under some of the world’s strictest protection standards. This flexibility allows businesses in China to stay compliant and safeguard customer trust. It also enables them to build long-term strategies that place data security at the core of their operations.

Matomo Seamlessly Imports Historical Data for a Smooth Transition

For companies already using Google Analytics, one of the biggest concerns when switching to a new platform is whether historical data can be preserved.

With Matomo, that concern disappears. The platform enables businesses to directly import GA historical data, so nothing is lost and no analysis models need to be rebuilt.

After migration, teams can immediately continue reporting and analysis inside Matomo, with full continuity of data and decision-making. For companies planning long-term operations in China, this capability ensures that data security is maintained. At the same time, it allows them to retain valuable business insights.

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Matomo Safeguards Data Security for Businesses in China

Under both GDPR and China’s local regulatory framework, violations of data protection can result in severe financial and legal consequences. Google Analytics has been at the center of repeated compliance disputes, leaving businesses that rely on it exposed to uncertainty and potential penalties.

Matomo provides a more reliable alternative. Features such as IP anonymization, user opt-out options, and customizable data retention policies make it easier for businesses in China to meet compliance requirements. For industries that handle sensitive data, including finance, healthcare, and education, Matomo enhances data security management and reduces the risk of non-compliance.

Matomo Delivers Efficient Analytics Advantages in the Chinese Market

Although Google Analytics is promoted as a free tool, the reality is more complex. Its steep learning curve and limited core functionality often challenge businesses. As a result, they end up spending on additional tools or premium upgrades to gain meaningful insights.

Matomo takes a different approach by offering advanced features such as heatmaps, session recordings, and form analytics all in one platform, available immediately without extra costs or technical hurdles. This integration not only reduces the complexity of managing multiple tools but also significantly improves operational efficiency for businesses in the Chinese market.

Matomo simplifies analytics while ensuring compliance with data security in China. This allows companies to shift their focus from technical obstacles to strategic growth.

Matomo Strengthens Data Security in the Chinese Market

For businesses operating in China, Matomo represents more than an analytics tool. It is a long-term strategic choice. It ensures complete data ownership, safeguards data security, reduces legal risks, and builds user trust. With its ability to import GA historical data seamlessly, it also guarantees continuity of insights and decision-making.

Adopting Matomo is not just about moving away from Google Analytics. It is a forward-looking decision that strengthens compliance, protects customer relationships, and supports sustainable growth in the Chinese market.

As the exclusive official partner of Matomo in China, STAiiRS provides localized technical support. It also offers implementation services tailored to the specific needs of businesses in the region. With STAiiRS, companies can build analytics systems that are efficient, secure, and fully compliant. If your goal is to achieve privacy-focused, accurate, and controllable analytics in China, STAiiRS is ready to help you unlock the full potential of Matomo.