Beijing: Major Chinese consumer brands are stepping up their push into the United States market as growth at home slows sharply, even as trade tensions and tariffs continue to shape business decisions.
Companies selling toys, lifestyle products, clothing and sportswear are opening new stores and strengthening online sales across key American cities. The move comes at a time when consumer spending in China has weakened, forcing companies to look abroad for new growth and stronger profit margins.
Brands such as Pop Mart, known for its collectible figures, and Miniso, which sells low priced household and fashion items, have expanded their physical presence in the United States. Sportswear group Anta and fashion retailer Urban Revivo are also testing the market with new stores and marketing campaigns.
Industry executives say the United States remains attractive despite tariffs because of its large consumer base and higher spending power. Profit margins are often stronger than in China, where shoppers have become more cautious amid economic uncertainty, job concerns and slower income growth.
The companies are mainly targeting younger American consumers who are open to new brands and are sensitive to price. Affordable products, frequent design updates and strong social media promotion are central to their strategy. Many U.S. shoppers are already familiar with Chinese brands through online platforms, making it easier for newcomers to gain attention.
However, challenges remain. Trade tariffs continue to raise costs, and building brand trust in a highly competitive retail market is difficult. Established American and global brands still dominate store shelves, and Chinese companies must invest heavily in marketing, supply chains and customer service to succeed.
Analysts say this trend highlights a wider shift in China’s consumer sector. With domestic demand under pressure, overseas markets are becoming essential for survival and growth. While political and trade tensions persist, business realities are pushing companies to take calculated risks abroad.
For U.S. consumers, the expansion could mean more choice and lower prices in categories such as fashion, lifestyle goods and collectibles. For global trade, it shows that economic ties between the world’s two largest economies remain active, even in an era of uncertainty and rivalry.