The Rise of China’s Homegrown Brands – Why Kiwi Businesses Should Pay Attention | Roger Hu

Fri, 06 Jun 2025 08:06:18 +1200

In this compelling TED Talk, Roger Hu explores how China’s homegrown brands are transforming global markets — and why this matters more than ever for New Zealand entrepreneurs, marketers, and exporters. From tech giants like Xiaomi and Huawei to lifestyle powerhouses like Li-Ning and Anta, Chinese brands are no longer just imitators — they’re innovators.

For Kiwi businesses eyeing Asia, this talk is a must-watch. With New Zealand's strong trade links to China — our largest export market — understanding the shift from "Made in China" to "Created in China" is vital. It affects how we compete, collaborate, and market our own products across Asia-Pacific and beyond.

Hu breaks down the evolution of Chinese consumer culture, the role of national pride, and the digital ecosystems that have allowed domestic brands to thrive — often with strategies that differ dramatically from Western models. For Aotearoa’s own emerging brands, these lessons offer insights into product design, storytelling, cross-border e-commerce, and platform-based innovation.

This is also about cultural shifts. As Kiwi creatives, educators, and policymakers grapple with global influence, understanding China’s brand rise offers a mirror for our own identity — how we present "Brand New Zealand" to the world.

Whether you're in Auckland tech, Christchurch manufacturing, or Wellington’s startup scene, this TED Talk provides valuable takeaways for the future of Kiwi branding, innovation, and global relevance.

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