Best Things to Buy from China in 2025: A Shopper’s Guide

China is a shopper’s paradise, offering everything from high-tech gadgets to traditional keepsakes. Whether you’re after the latest smartphone or a beautifully crafted silk robe, there’s something for everyone.

The “Made in China 2025” strategy has encouraged the country to produce smarter, greener, and more innovative goods. Tech lovers can now buy feature-packed drones, while collectors can purchase exquisite jade carvings.

According to Statista, the consumer electronics market in China is projected to generate revenue of approximately US$206.9 billion, with an anticipated annual growth rate of 3.84% from 2025 to 2029. Brands like Xiaomi and Huawei are leading the charge. Even traditional industries, like tea and ceramics, are growing globally.

If you’re after cool Chinese products, look at smart home devices, fashion, and beauty products. But don’t overlook timeless finds: silk, calligraphy sets, and authentic board games remain top souvenirs.

Shopping smart means knowing what’s trending and where to buy. This guide breaks down the best things to buy from China, from fashion to electronics—so you can find top deals and hidden gems.

Let’s dive in!

Tech Gadgets and Electronics

Electronics are among the most popular things to buy from China. The country accounts for over 30% of global electronics exports, and its products range from smartphones to smart home devices.

Portable projectors, wireless earbuds, and gaming accessories are in high demand. Smartwatches with health-tracking features, often priced lower than international alternatives, are also options.

Smart home devices are gaining traction. In 2025, China’s smart home market is projected to reach $37.2 billion, with household penetration at 88.4%. AI-powered security cameras, smart locks, and energy-efficient lighting lead the demand.

Drones are another standout. Once a niche market, they’re now widely used for photography, security, and recreation. Many high-performance drones now feature AI tracking, making them easier to use.

For those interested in photography, Chinese camera accessories like gimbals and lenses offer professional-grade quality. With constant innovation, China’s tech market remains ahead of trends.

Traditional Chinese Toys and Games

Classic Chinese board games and toys reflect centuries of history. Mahjong, Go, and Chinese chess remain favourites, enjoyed in tea houses, parks, and homes across the country.

Mahjong, played with 144 tiles, is both a game of skill and social bonding. Some sets feature hand-carved designs, making them great collectibles. Go, a strategy game over 2,500 years old, is still widely played today.

Wooden puzzles and traditional Chinese toys are fun keepsakes. Painted spinning tops, shadow puppets, and bamboo dragonflies are still popular among children and collectors. Handmade kites featuring dragons and phoenixes also make unique souvenirs.

Paper-based games have deep cultural roots. Shadow play, where puppets bring stories to life, dates back over a thousand years. These pieces are still crafted using silk and leather, preserving a unique art form.

Beauty and Skincare Products

Traditional remedies and modern science shape Chinese skincare products. Herbal formulas, passed down for generations, are now combined with advanced research to create sought-after creams, masks, and serums.

Herbal ingredients like ginseng, pearl powder, and goji berries are common. These have been used in beauty routines for centuries. In 2025, the demand for natural skincare in China continued to surge as more people sought plant-based solutions.

Facial masks are a top pick. Some use rice extract to brighten, while others include volcanic clay for deep cleansing. Hydrating sheet masks, packed with herbal extracts, remain a best-seller.

Tea-based skincare is gaining attention. Green tea and white tea extracts help fight pollution damage, making them a go-to for urban buyers. Whether for hydration or anti-ageing, buying from China offers plenty of skincare choices.

Fashion and Accessories

From traditional silk robes to streetwear, China’s fashion industry blends history with modern trends. Traditional Chinese clothing, like qipaos, remains a go-to for special occasions and cultural events.

Silk is a must-buy. China produces over 70% of the world’s silk, and authentic silk scarves, dresses, and bedding are sought after for their craftsmanship and comfort.

Modern brands are making waves. The Guochao movement, which celebrates local designs, has fuelled a rise in top Chinese brands that focus on bold patterns and cultural motifs.

Accessories are equally diverse. Jade jewellery, a symbol of protection and prosperity, is a meaningful purchase. Hand-painted fans, often featuring intricate calligraphy, are both practical and decorative.

Sustainable fashion is growing. More designers are using organic cotton, bamboo fabrics, and eco-friendly dyes. With a mix of tradition and innovation, buying from China offers a wide range of styles.

Car Accessories and Auto Parts

Automotive products are among the best things to buy from China. The country is now the world’s largest auto market, producing a wide range of car parts, tools, and accessories.

Dashcams remain popular. With road safety a priority, many drivers prefer high-definition cameras with night vision and motion detection.

Smart car gadgets are on the rise. Wireless chargers, digital tire pressure monitors, and parking sensors make driving easier. Some newer models even include voice-controlled navigation and emergency alerts.

Interior accessories, like ergonomic seat cushions and custom-fit sunshades, improve comfort. Car fragrance diffusers, often infused with traditional Chinese herbal scents, add a refreshing touch. Overall, these small upgrades enhance daily commutes.

Watches and Timepieces

Watches are more than just timekeepers. Many collectors seek the best Chinese watches, valuing their craftsmanship, intricate designs, and mechanical precision.

Automatic watches remain a strong category. Recently, the demand for self-winding watches has grown significantly as more buyers seek detailed movements without the premium price tag.

Minimalist styles are in demand. Sleek, stainless-steel designs with understated dials appeal to modern tastes. Traditional watches, inspired by ancient Chinese art, offer a cultural twist with dragon and phoenix engravings.

Smartwatches are everywhere. Many come with built-in health tracking, allowing users to monitor heart rate, sleep, and workouts. Stylish and functional, they make a solid choice for everyday use.

Cameras and Photography Equipment

Photography fans looking for equipment to buy from China have plenty of options. The country has become a major player in the camera and accessories market, offering quality gear at competitive prices.

Gimbals are a top pick. They help stabilise footage, making them essential for vloggers and filmmakers. As video content grows more popular, these devices have become a must-have for smooth, professional-looking shots.

Lenses are another highlight. Many options now include advanced coatings to reduce glare and enhance sharpness. From wide-angle to telephoto, there’s something for every photographer.

Drones with built-in cameras have also improved. Many models now offer 4K recording and AI-assisted tracking, making aerial photography more accessible than ever. As travel photography grows, so does the demand for lightweight, high-quality equipment.

Home and Kitchen Products

Traditional cookware is one of the best things to buy from China. Cast iron cookware, known for its durability, is a kitchen staple. A well-seasoned wok can last for generations.

Tea sets are a common purchase. Porcelain and clay teapots, often handmade, enhance the flavour of tea. With China producing over 40% of the world’s tea, finding authentic sets is easy.

Bamboo steamers remain a favourite. Used for dumplings and buns, they lock in moisture while keeping food light and fluffy. Many home cooks swear by them for their natural, earthy aroma.

Decorative items are also worth considering. Hand-painted porcelain vases, silk embroidery, and carved wooden furniture pieces showcase traditional artistry. Functional yet artistic, they bring a touch of culture to any space.

Final Thoughts!

China offers a mix of tradition and modernity, making shopping an experience beyond just finding good deals. From high-tech gadgets to handcrafted keepsakes, the variety is endless.

Electronics continue to lead in exports, while demand for Chinese skincare products and fashion grows worldwide. Heritage-rich items, like calligraphy sets and silk, remain just as popular.

Tea lovers can explore authentic brews, while collectors may seek the best souvenirs from China, like jade carvings or Mahjong sets. Each purchase carries a story, whether cultural, artistic, or practical.

Shopping smart means knowing what to look for. Quality varies, but patience and a keen eye often lead to treasures. Whether for personal use or as gifts, there’s always something unique to bring home.

Frequently Asked Questions