Major global brands are responding as Chinese manufacturers encourage US consumers to bypass tariffs imposed by President Trump by sourcing products directly from China.

On TikTok, influencers and manufacturers in China have taken to mocking Trump’s tariffs, posting videos that claim to provide shopping “hacks” for purchasing items from notable brands like Lululemon, Nike, and Adidas at lower prices by buying directly from Chinese sources.

Numerous viral videos aimed at US audiences assert that they can guide viewers on how to place orders directly from factories that produce goods for popular labels.

In response to this trend, Lululemon has publicly stated that it does not collaborate with the manufacturers highlighted in these TikTok videos, advising consumers to be cautious of counterfeit products and misinformation.

The brand reiterated that its merchandise is exclusively sold through Lululemon store locations, authorized ecommerce platforms, and selected specialty retailers. For accurate details regarding its global manufacturing partners, Lululemon directs consumers to its supplier list that showcases verified and current supplier relations.

An Adidas representative affirmed that their products are not sold directly by their suppliers.

“The most reliable way for consumers to obtain authentic Adidas products is through adidas.com, an official Adidas store, or authorized retail partners,” the spokesperson elaborated.

As of now, Chanel and Nike have not responded to inquiries regarding the matter.

The TikTok videos depict items that resemble both affordable and luxury products, suggesting that consumers can save money by eliminating middlemen.

Many of the clips are filmed in Chinese factories alleged to supply popular US brands, with influencers aiming to reveal how a majority of consumer goods are manufactured in China.

Numerous videos include website links and contact details for viewers wishing to buy directly from suppliers, with some promoting platforms like DHGate.

One TikTok user claimed, “A bag costs $6,150 from the boutique [Chanel]. The alternative is $300, crafted by me.”

In another instance, a user asserted, “Your Chanel cosmetics: 80 percent are manufactured in China and priced at $5; they simply add a logo in France and sell it for 10 to 40 times the price.”

Under Trump’s global trade policies, most imports from China to the US are subject to a 145 percent tariff, while China has retaliated with 125 percent tariffs on American exports. Trump has also paused new tariffs on other countries for 90 days.

As many Western brands produce their goods in China before shipping them to the US, there is a high likelihood that they will have to raise prices, which could deter consumers. If shoppers start purchasing directly from China, it could further impact these brands.

Nevertheless, doubts remain about whether the factories showcased are genuinely linked to the mentioned brands or merely creating imitation products.

Additionally, there are concerns regarding any non-disclosure agreements binding these factories and how the TikTok videos might influence established relationships between the brands and their suppliers.