China's counterfeit industry is gaining attention on social media platforms like TikTok, sparking discussions about luxury dupes and the true cost of high-end goods. This trend, dubbed "trade war TikTok," highlights the availability of cheaper alternatives and questions the perceived value of luxury brands.
Viral videos suggest that luxury items can be manufactured in China at significantly lower costs. For example, one video claimed that a Hermès Birkin bag costs around $1,400 to produce, a fraction of its retail price. While some luxury brands collaborate with Chinese manufacturers, most restrict production to Europe. Platforms like Douyin feature sellers promoting dupes of brands like Max Mara, Burberry, and Hermès.
Despite crackdowns, counterfeit luxury goods remain accessible in China through specific search terms. DHgate, a Chinese e-commerce marketplace, has gained popularity in the U.S., offering a wide range of China-made goods. Experts warn that buying directly from these sources could expose consumers to counterfeit products. U.S. Customs seized $1.8 billion worth of fake goods in 2023 alone.
This trend has sparked debate about pricing gaps and product quality, with some TikTok creators arguing that Chinese manufacturing can meet high standards. However, experts caution that many of these videos promote counterfeit goods, not authentic luxury items. Some luxury brands, like Louis Vuitton, deny manufacturing in China, while others, like Lululemon, acknowledge limited production in the country.