The value of Chinese brands listed among the 2026 top 100 most valuable global brands has leaped by 32 percent year-on-year, significantly surpassing the global average growth rate, according to a report released by the consulting firm Kantar.
Chinese brands are not only showcasing their innovative vitality and global competitiveness, but are also transitioning from mere scale expansion to capability enhancement, according to the report released on Thursday.
The report added that Chinese brands excel at making decisive judgments and acting swiftly in the early stages of trends, and they effectively translate insights into tangible value through continuous iteration and experience optimization. Such agility is becoming a crucial competitive advantage in an increasingly uncertain market environment, the report stated.
For instance, Alibaba, ranked 19th on the list, has stabilized its brand value through business structure optimization and user experience upgrades. Haier, positioned at 53rd, has embraced AI comprehensively throughout its processes, continuously strengthening its competitiveness in the Internet of Things ecosystem.
"In the process of globalization and long-term brand building, Chinese brands have been demonstrating sharper judgment and more decisive action, setting new references for global brand growth," said Zhang Lin, executive managing director of Kantar China.
Kantar has stated that this year's list sends a clear signal that artificial intelligence is rapidly reshaping the global brand value system, with brands unable to adapt to AI-driven transformations losing their competitive advantages.