Local brands win Chinese consumers

In terms of reputation and popularity, Chinese brands are rapidly catching up with their foreign counterparts in China on the back of ever-improving designs, trusted labels, and wallet-friendly prices, market insiders said.

Dong Fang, 28, software programmer, would probably agree. She recently installed a Xiaomi air purifier in her flat in Shanghai. Although Xiaomi started as a smartphone brand, it is now recognized as a tech major with a big presence in consumer electronics.

"There are many items I wouldn't mind buying from domestic brands for my new home," Dong said.