KUALA LUMPUR, May 22 -- Once dismissed as low-cost alternatives and mass-produced goods, Chinese brands have now become a fixture in Malaysian daily life - from the smartphone in your pocket to the electric vehicle (EV) on the road, and even the bubble tea in your hand.

Today, brands such as Xiaomi, BYD (Build Your Dreams), Huawei, Shein, Mixue, Haidilao, and TikTok have not only gained ground in Malaysia but also redefined what "Made in China" means to consumers. These brands are leading market trends with high-performance, trendy, and culturally relevant products.

According to market research firm GfK, Chinese brands accounted for over 45 per cent of smartphone sales in Malaysia in 2024. Additionally, more than 60 per cent of fast-fas...