China's urban middle class wants more U.S. product choices, according to a survey conducted by Research International. A public-opinion poll of 1,140 Chinese consumers between the ages of 20 and 59 found that high-quality personal-care toiletries and consumer electronics lead the list of that age group's most desired U.S. products.
The survey, conducted in June and sponsored by UPS, revealed the following:
- 53% of respondents would like a broader selection of U.S. toiletries, including shampoo, shower gel and dental-care products.
- 52% said they want more U.S. apparel and fashion accessories, especially athletic shoes, sandals, T-shirts with American logos, sportswear and blue jeans.
- 50% would like to see a broader product selection of U.S. entertainment, including videos, DVDs and compact discs.
- 45% want more U.S. durable products, such as refrigerators, washers and dryers and microwaves.
"According to the State Department, U.S. exports to China have grown 80% since 2001, but this survey shows the Chinese would like even more quality American items," says Kurt Kuehn, UPS senior vice president of worldwide sales and marketing. "The spending power of this middle class is exploding. Many American companies view China as a threat rather than an opportunity. They run the risk of missing the China potential and being left behind."
For more survey results and other information about doing business in China, visit www.pressroom.ups.com/chinasurvey.
