Anti-Chinese Business Sentiment in France: A Complex and Two-Way Relationship
Introduction
A couple of months ago, many of us may have seen news about growing anti-Chinese business sentiment in France. One of the most visible examples was the controversy surrounding the opening of a SHEIN stand-alone store in Paris. The debate quickly spread beyond fashion, raising concerns about fast fashion, sustainability, labour practices, and the pressure global companies place on local businesses.
While these discussions are often labelled as “anti-Chinese,” the reality is far more nuanced. In many cases, the criticism targets business models, not nationality. Fast fashion, mass production, and environmental impact have become major points of concern across Europe—regardless of whether companies are Chinese, American, or European.
However, this public resistance contrasts sharply with another ongoing trend that receives far less attention.
Western and French Companies Expanding into China
While some Chinese brands face resistance in France, many non-Chinese companies—especially European and French brands—continue to expand aggressively into China. In fact, China remains one of the most important markets for global growth in 2025.
Below are examples of major international companies operating in China across multiple industries, illustrating how globalisation works in both directions.
Examples of Non-Chinese Companies Operating in China
Apparel, Luxury, and Fashion
- LVMH Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton (France)
Markets: Mainland China and Hong Kong
LVMH operates extensively across luxury fashion, beauty, and personal accessories, targeting China’s growing middle and high-income consumers.
Beauty, Make-Up, and Personal Care
- LVMH Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton (France)
Markets: China and Hong Kong
French luxury beauty brands continue to dominate premium segments in China, benefitting from strong brand heritage and consumer trust.
Consumer Electronics
- Sony Corporation (Japan)
Markets: China and Hong Kong
Sony remains a key player in China’s electronics and gaming markets, particularly among younger and tech-savvy consumers.
Fast Food and Foodservice
- Yum! Brands (United States)
Market: China
Yum! Brands is one of the most successful Western fast-food operators in China, with strong localisation strategies and widespread retail presence.
Sugar Confectionery and Snacks
- Nestlé (Switzerland)
Market: China
Nestlé has built a long-term presence in China, adapting flavours and products to local preferences.
Toys and Games
- LEGO (Denmark)
Market: China
LEGO has expanded rapidly in China through physical stores, e-commerce, and educational partnerships, appealing strongly to young families.
What This Contradiction Tells Us
The contrast is striking. On one hand, Chinese companies in Europe face increasing scrutiny and public resistance. On the other hand, Western and French companies continue to view China as a strategic, profitable, and essential market.
This highlights an important reality:
Globalisation is not one-directional.
Economic relationships between France, Europe, and China are deeply interconnected. Criticising foreign businesses at home while expanding abroad raises questions about fairness, consistency, and global responsibility.
Final Thoughts
The debate surrounding Chinese businesses in France—such as the SHEIN store in Paris—reflects broader concerns about sustainability, ethics, and global capitalism rather than nationality alone. At the same time, the continued expansion of French, European, and American companies into China shows that economic cooperation remains strong and mutually beneficial.
Rather than framing the conversation as “anti-Chinese” or “anti-Western,” a more productive discussion would focus on:
- Ethical production
- Environmental responsibility
- Fair competition
- Transparency across global markets
These challenges apply to all companies, regardless of where they come from.
