Americans turn to Chinese online shopping apps like Taobao, DHgate to bypass tariffs amid US-China trade war

Chinese exports to the US are now subject to tariffs of up to 145%, while American goods shipped to China face 125% in retaliatory duties. The tit-for-tat escalation has driven prices higher and left many shoppers looking for ways to cut out intermediaries and shop straight from the source.

One of the most visible arenas for this trend is TikTok, where Chinese suppliers have begun marketing directly to US buyers. A growing number of influencers are offering tutorials, price breakdowns, and manufacturer recommendations, promoting the idea that many Western luxury products originate in the same Chinese factories now selling to consumers at a fraction of the retail cost.

A TikTok channel called Sen Bag, for example, showcases handcrafted leather handbags that claim to match the quality of top-tier designer brands like Hermès. In one video, the channel states: “A Birkin bag at a boutique will cost $38,000. But the real cost out of the factory?”

Sen Bag goes on to detail the high-end materials used, leather from Italy’s Nuti, Germany’s Weinheimer, and France’s Haas — and threads from France’s Fil Au Chinois, calling it “the Rolls Royce of thread.” However, the estimated production cost per Birkin-style bag in China: just $450 for the leather and $25 for stitching and assembly.

In another video, Sen Bag tours one of Guangzhou’s largest wholesale markets, home to over 700 shops selling bags and accessories.

Another TikToker, @lunasourcingchina claims popular yoga wear brand Lululemon sources some of its leggings and jackets from Chinese manufacturers such as Xiang Long Clothing and Hung Qisun Clothing. She points to a company called Unciaactive, which sells zip-up jackets and high-waist leggings for under $28, compared to retail prices over $100.

Apps and platforms frequently mentioned by these content creators include:

• Taobao – Best for individual purchases direct from Chinese sellers. Note: The app is in Chinese only, and may require translation tools or tutorials to navigate.
• DHgate (敦煌网) – Best for wholesale electronics, fashion, and accessories. It features global shipping, bulk discounts, and buyer protection policies.

However, not everyone is sold on the trend. One commenter warned: “I don’t think most of these people realise that these products are bootleg. They’re not the actual name brands. The same stuff you can buy on the sidewalks in NYC.”

While some factories may indeed produce goods for both international labels and domestic brands, the distinction between legitimate surplus and counterfeit goods can be difficult to verify. As such, buyers should proceed with caution and do their due diligence.

Supply chain experts are also warning that Chinese factories may be nearing their limit in how much they can reduce prices.“If you already reduced your pricing in the past for your US clients, you probably don't have much space to do it again and again,” said Jonathan Chitayat, CEO of manufacturing and sourcing firm Genimex Group.