In the middle of a global trade war, something unusual is happening on TikTok. Chinese Factories owners and sellers are now using TikTok to claim that they are the original manufacturers behind many high-end European and American brands. These videos are surprising millions of viewers by showing luxury handbags, shoes, clothes, and accessories all supposedly made in China, and offered at extremely low prices.
What’s Really Happening?
Chinese factory owners and sellers are making TikTok videos showcasing luxury goods like Birkin bags, Gucci belts, Nike shoes, and Dior perfumes, claiming to be the manufacturers.
“We make the exact same products for big luxury brands. But if you buy directly from us, you pay 80–90% less!”
One TikTok user named Wang Sen showed walls of luxury bags and said he is the OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) for top brands. OEMs are companies that make products for big brands, but under secret contracts. The brand then adds their logo and sells them at high prices.
Which Brands Are Being “Exposed”?
Here are some popular brands that are being named or hinted at in these videos, either directly or through copycat products:
👜 Luxury & Fashion Brands:
- Gucci – Claims show Gucci bags being made in Chinese factories, although Gucci says final products are made in Italy. Some hardware or packaging may come from China.
- Dior – Like Gucci, Dior products are said to be assembled in France or Italy, but with parts from Chinese suppliers.
- Chanel – Chinese TikTok users claim to sell identical-looking Chanel bags, some even showing factories producing similar designs.
- Hermès (Birkin bags) – A TikTok video showed rows of Birkin-style bags, with the creator claiming to be an original producer.
- Louis Vuitton – Although LV claims “Made in France,” many online believe some materials come from Chinese partners.
- Balenciaga – Factory videos hint at high-end sneakers and apparel made in China.
👟 Athletic & Streetwear Brands:
- Nike – Nike has long used Chinese factories to make shoes, clothes, and gear. Some TikToks show factories claiming to be original suppliers.
- Adidas – Many popular brands, including Nike and Adidas, have their products manufactured in countries like China, Vietnam, and Indonesia.
- Lululemon – A TikTok influencer claimed Lululemon’s $98 leggings are made for just $5–$6 in Yiwu factories. Lululemon denied the claim but admits to using some Chinese suppliers.
- Puma – Known to work with manufacturers in China, especially for shoes and accessories.
👔 Other Brands Often Mentioned:
- Zara – A fast fashion brand that has used Chinese manufacturers for years.
- Shein – Directly based in China, Shein makes and ships products straight from Chinese factories.
- Temu – Also Chinese, it offers factory-direct pricing to Western consumers.
- H&M – Although based in Sweden, much of its clothing is made in Chinese factories.
What Are These TikTokers Really Selling?
Experts say it’s very unlikely that these videos are from real, authorized brand suppliers. Most luxury brands have non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) with their manufacturers, meaning they can’t legally show or sell products on the side.
Many of these TikTok sellers are likely offering high-quality replicas or even counterfeit goods. These are not officially approved by brands, and do not come with any warranty or return policy.
Still, the content is going viral because it raises important questions:
- Are luxury brands overcharging for products that may be made in the same factories as cheaper versions?
- Is “Made in France” or “Made in Italy” just about the final touches – not the actual production?
Why This Matters Now
These TikTok videos come at a time when the U.S. is putting heavy tariffs (up to 145%) on Chinese products. Chinese creators are telling U.S. consumers:China Strikes Back in Trade War: Suspends Boeing Aircraft Purchases From US
“Buy directly from us and skip the middleman.”
Apps like DHgate (which sells factory products) and Taobao are becoming more popular in the U.S., climbing the App Store charts. But buying direct from these sources might also lead to:
- Customs issues
- No brand guarantees
- Poor quality or fake goods
- Environmental harm from individual shipping
The Hidden Truth: Is Luxury Really “Made in China”?
The truth is somewhere in between.
Many luxury brands do use Chinese factories for parts, materials, or early assembly. Final products are often finished in Europe so they can legally say “Made in Italy” or “Made in France.”
- The hardware (like buckles, chains, or zippers) on a designer bag might come from China.
- Perfume packaging could be made in China, even if the liquid is bottled elsewhere.
- Watches might have Chinese parts but be assembled in Switzerland.
Because luxury supply chains are secretive, we may never know the full picture.
The Bigger Picture: A Wake-Up Call
These viral videos are not just about bargains or knockoffs – they’re making people think.
- Are we paying more just for logos?
- Do we care about where our products come from?
- Can the West function without Chinese factories?
As one TikTok commenter said:
“If China stopped producing, our stores would be empty.”
In the end, these videos are shaking up the fashion world, raising doubts about how global brands operate – and where the true value of a luxury product really lies.
