Chinese suppliers expose luxury brands’ “Made in China” reality on TikTok amid US tariff row

As the tariff row between the US and China intensifies, social media, especially TikTok, is playing a pivotal role in shedding light on the international trade war, not just through news and memes but now via viral videos. Chinese content creators are exposing how many luxury brands are largely manufactured in China and later rebranded in Europe to be sold at exorbitant prices.

Several viral videos have shown accessories from high-end labels like Hermes Birkin bags, Louis Vuitton, Prada, Gucci, Fendi, and Chanel.

The creators claim that these products are made in Chinese factories and then sent to Europe, where they are rebranded and sold at jaw-dropping prices, purely for the brand tag.

One video features a Chinese supplier explaining that a bag made with the same materials and craftsmanship as a Hermes Birkin costs around $1,000 in China.

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However, the branded version is sold for $38,000 in Western markets. “More than 90% of what you’re paying is for the logo. If you don’t care about the brand, you can get the same quality directly from us,” the supplier said.

Other creators interviewed factory workers and suppliers, who walked them through the production process, demonstrating how many of the so-called “handmade in Italy or France” items are, in reality, produced entirely in China.

Check: China hits back: US goods to face 125% tariffs starting April 12

This social media revelation comes amid heightened trade tensions. In response to the US imposing a 145% tariff on Chinese goods, China has retaliated with a 125% tariff on American imports.

President Xi Jinping, in his first speech on the trade standoff, emphasised that China’s development relies on self-reliance and resilience, stating that the Chinese people are not afraid of unfair pressure. 

Meanwhile, China filed another complaint with the World Trade Organisation (WTO) against US tariffs.

Tesla has reportedly halted orders for its electric vehicles in China.

On the cultural front, China announced restrictions on Hollywood films, planning to reduce the number of imported American movies, citing a fall in local demand.

The White House said that President Trump is open to negotiating a deal, but warned that continued retaliation from China could further escalate tensions.

A recent US survey revealed inflation concerns at their highest since 1981, with financial analysts warning of an increased risk of recession.