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Tue, 21 Apr 2026

Tue, 21 Apr 2026 Hotpot, bubble tea and sportswear: China's new exports take on the world

Made in China used to mean cheap, mass-produced goods but a new wave of Chinese brands is emerging.
Chinese companies are rapidly expanding globally, moving beyond their traditional role as low-cost manufacturers and establishing themselves as globally recognized consumer brands. With scale and operational muscle from their vast domestic market, Chinese firms are now taking on Western competitors in various industries, including fashion, toys, sportswear, electric vehicles, and restaurants. Companies like Miniso, BYD, Anta, and Haidilao have achieved significant success overseas, often by adapting to local markets and leveraging their strong brands. In some cases, Chinese firms are even surpassing established global players in terms of sales and market share. The shift is driven not only by China's growing economic prowess but also by domestic pressures such as a slowing economy, intense competition, and declining birth rates, which have forced companies to seek new growth opportunities abroad. While challenges remain, including tariffs, political scrutiny, and concerns over data security, Chinese companies are increasingly seen as innovative and design-led, rather than just cheap producers. Analysts predict that this trend will continue, with more Chinese firms expanding globally and competing head-to-head with Western brands.