Chinese brands gaining more recognition globally: industry experts

Chinese companies' going global is entering a new stage where brands are gradually acknowledged globally to be of high quality and with innovative designs, a key step for the country to move up the global value chain, said experts.

Xia Lingmin, deputy head of the China National Textile and Apparel Council, said domestic apparel companies are influencing foreign manufacturers with "Chinese genes" (traditional cultural elements and many other aspects), and some are actively seeking mergers and acquisitions on a global scale.

In 2018 alone French luxury brand Carven acquired the Shanghai-based ICICLE, while domestic brand Semir acquired Kidiliz, a French children's brand. Anta meanwhile acquired Amer Sports, a Finnish sports brand.

"More importantly, some domestic apparel brands are increasingly acknowledged in foreign high-end markets, a result of their relentless efforts promoting innovation and assurances of product quality," Xia said.

Bosideng, a Chinese winter coat brand considered conservative in design, won rounds of applause at New York Fashion Week for its new lines. To date, the brand has sold products to 72 countries across the globe.

According to an industry report from China Minsheng Bank, domestic apparel companies are enjoying increasing global presence, with Southeast Asian countries among the most successful.

Xia said there is still a gap for domestic apparel brands in keeping up with foreign brands with long histories and rich experience.

"Going ahead our association will actively work to facilitate global communications and cooperation," he said.

He made his remarks at the launch ceremony of a Chinese brand alliance in Beijing on Friday, also the third China Brand Day.

The alliance was established promote communication and cooperation between companies, attracting over 1,200 companies to date.

Luo Yulong, deputy head of the China General Chamber of Commerce, also said that domestic companies have been in hot pursuit of cooperation while going global to exploit their strengths for better global growth.

Luo said they face markets of various cultural backgrounds and legislative environments requiring a range of expertise.

"The goal is to better tell a 'Chinese story' in foreign markets," Luo said.

Luo also said that many companies are eyeing more business from the Belt and Road Initiative, while also contributing to public good in local communities.