A large number of videos from Chinese merchants have emerged on TikTok almost simultaneously. The content is largely similar, often presented in the name of factory personnel, primarily targeting luxury brands such as Hermès, Louis Vuitton, and Chanel. These short videos either feature English narration or are accompanied by English subtitles, promoting the idea that the factory prices of these high-end luxury goods in China are very low, and that the prices soar only after being labeled in Europe and the U.S.. The videos encourage consumers to purchase directly from Chinese factories.
These videos have driven the rapid rise in app store downloads in the U.S. for Chinese e-commerce platforms like DHgate and Taobao. However, DHgate, Taobao, and Pinduoduo have repeatedly been listed in the U.S. Trade Representative’s (USTR) annual Notorious Markets list for allegedly participating in or facilitating large-scale trademark counterfeiting or copyright infringement.
These promoted Chinese products are highly likely to be counterfeit. Lululemon clarified that the company does not collaborate with the manufacturer mentioned in the online videos. Hermès stated that 100 percent of its leather goods are made in France. Louis Vuitton also noted that its leather goods are all produced in Europe and the U.S.
French media outlets, after conducting fact-checks, indicated that this appears to be a coordinated propaganda effort, as the videos are highly similar in terms of upload dates, content, and format.
Hong Kong’s new media Economic Daily reported on April 18 that these TikTok efforts aim to bypass tariff barriers, revealing the survival crisis facing Chinese factories amid the sudden escalation of the U.S.-China trade war. There are also reports that many manufacturers of furniture, appliances, and clothing in China’s eastern coastal provinces exist primarily to serve U.S. consumers. With tariffs taking effect, these products may face the dilemma of having no market.
Source: Epoch Times, April 19, 2025
https://www.epochtimes.com/gb/25/4/19/n14486453.htm