Chinese Counterfeit Clothing Factory Relocates to U.S. to Avoid New Tariffs

A leading Chinese producer of imitation luxury apparel has announced plans to relocate operations to the United States. The company, nicknamed “Guccii with Two i’s” by the fashion press, says the move is a direct response to new U.S. import tariffs targeting Chinese goods.

The CEO told reporters that moving production stateside will cut shipping costs and allow products to carry the coveted “Made in USA” label without customs seizures. “We’re making counterfeits truly American-made,” he said in an interview with Bloomberg.

The new facility will occupy an abandoned shopping mall in Ohio, chosen for its available parking, intact food court, and a workforce “already familiar with mall brands.” Job postings on Indeed seek “seamstresses skilled in both Chanel and Channel.”

Trade experts warn the move could normalize counterfeit fashion within U.S. borders. “When knockoffs are domestic, it blurs the line between parody and authenticity,” said an analyst from the International AntiCounterfeiting Coalition.

The grand opening is scheduled for next spring, with a runway show featuring $29.99 “exclusive” handbags — discounted to $24.99 for bulk purchases. The event will stream live on TikTok, where influencers are already planning unboxing videos.