Do you love buying “MIC” as souvenirs? The 4 most beloved Chinese-made products among foreigners

Travel Center / Comprehensive Report

What’s your impression of “Made in China” products? Items with an exotic Eastern flair have always been popular among Western travelers—whether it’s a cheongsam embroidered with intricate patterns or traditional Chinese knick-knacks. One website has compiled a list of the 4 most beloved Chinese-made specialty products that Western travelers like to buy as souvenirs. See if any of them are to your taste?

▲ Calligraphy wall hangings are highly favored by Western travelers. Image for illustrative purposes only. (Photo / File photo, New Taipei City Cultural Affairs Bureau)

1. Traditional Chinese medicine, calligraphy supplies, and traditional decorations
Many travelers are most interested in items with a traditional Chinese flair, such as handbags with delicate embroidery, Chinese-style decorations, fans, ink paintings, or calligraphy pieces that can be hung up. Traditional Chinese medicine, which is vastly different from Western pills, has also unexpectedly become a popular purchase among Western travelers.

▲ Illustration of a Redmi phone. (Photo / From Weibo)

2. Electronics and clothing
Among them, Germans are particularly fond of Chinese-made electronics, such as Xiaomi phones. Many travelers consider them affordable, high-performing, and easy to use. Additionally, Chinese-made clothing or bags are also very popular. One German traveler mentioned that local garments are finely stitched and reasonably priced, so they always buy a lot whenever they visit.

▲ Illustration of a cheongsam. (Photo / By reporter You t
ru)

3. Cheongsams
Cheongsams, embroidered with intricate patterns and showcasing the curves of a woman’s body, are especially popular among Korean travelers. Some travelers say they became deeply fascinated by cheongsams after watching Chinese dramas, so they decided to buy one before even departing, while also wanting to experience the delicate and elegant scenery of Jiangnan gardens.

▲ China’s most famous chili sauce—Lao Gan Ma chili crisp. (Photo / From Baidu Baike)

4. Lao Gan Ma chili sauce
Whether used as a dip for cold dishes or added as seasoning while stir-frying, the uniquely flavorful Lao Gan Ma chili sauce is highly praised by spice lovers. One Canadian traveler mentioned that after trying it for the first time during a trip to Changsha, they were immediately hooked and even wanted to bring back a whole box. Since then, they’ve made it a point to try local chili sauces whenever they visit China.