A viral TikTok trend is urging Americans to buy directly from Chinese manufacturers or through wholesale sites like DHgate and Taobao, claiming it’s a way to bypass high retail prices and avoid tariffs. But experts warn this shopping hack might be more risky than rewarding.
The Rise of DHgate and Taobao in the U.S. App Stores
Two Chinese e-commerce platforms, DHgate and Taobao, have surged in U.S. app store downloads, thanks to trending TikTok videos promoting them as low-cost shopping alternatives. Market analysts say this reflects rising anxiety over U.S.-China trade tensions, soaring inflation, and a desire for “secret” money-saving tricks—but most Americans should think twice before placing an order.
Why Buying Direct from Chinese Factories Is Risky
While it’s true that many Western brands manufacture in China, that doesn’t mean buying directly from the factory is a guaranteed bargain. Experts say:
- Tariffs still apply, even on direct purchases.
- Buyers risk poor quality control, delayed shipping, or no refunds.
- Some sellers only deal in bulk orders, not single items.
- Counterfeit and scam risks are high without intermediary protections.
“If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is,” says Sky Canaves, principal retail analyst at eMarketer.
TikTok Trends Fuel Unrealistic Expectations
Social media videos exaggerate the ease and value of buying from Chinese sites. Suggestions to message manufacturers via WeChat or WhatsApp, or to bypass U.S. retailers for luxury dupes, can lead to disappointment. Many shoppers don’t realize that buying from Chinese apps doesn’t eliminate import duties or ensure product authenticity.
Example: A TikTok video claims you can buy Hermès bags direct from a Chinese factory. This is false—Hermès manufactures its luxury handbags in France, not China.
Why Middlemen Still Matter
Middlemen like Amazon, Walmart, Temu, and Shein provide crucial benefits:
- Customer service and return policies
- Product vetting and counterfeit control
- Bulk purchasing discounts passed to consumers
While these platforms often still sell goods made in China, they offer a buffer that protects buyers from shipping issues, scams, or regulatory problems.
Tariffs Are Unavoidable—Even for Direct Imports
Contrary to what TikTok influencers claim, U.S. import tariffs on Chinese-made goods apply whether you buy from a local retailer or directly from a factory. And starting in April 2024, the U.S. will crack down on a loophole that allowed sites like Temu and DHgate to avoid tariffs by shipping small, individual packages.
Expect prices on those platforms to increase, and the risks of low-cost dupes to rise with them.
Should You Still Buy from DHgate or Taobao?
You can find good deals—especially on non-branded or bulk products—but proceed with caution. If you’re shopping for brand-name lookalikes, remember that quality varies widely. Consider:
- Reading detailed seller reviews
- Verifying return policies
- Using secure payment methods
- Limiting orders to low-risk items
Bottom Line: Is It Worth It?
The TikTok-fueled trend of buying direct from Chinese factories is driven by a desire to save money during inflation, but it may expose you to tariffs, scams, and logistical headaches. Stick to reputable online marketplaces that offer protections, or use factory-direct apps carefully and sparingly.
