Calvin Klein & Tommy Hilfiger Caught in the U.S.-China Trade War

The ongoing U.S.-China trade war has taken a major turn, impacting some of the world’s biggest fashion brands. PVH Corp., the parent company of Calvin Klein and Tommy Hilfiger, has been blacklisted by China, putting its business at serious risk.

Why Did China Blacklist PVH Corp.?

China’s Ministry of Commerce added PVH Corp. to its “unreliable entities” list due to:

• Allegations that PVH refused to source cotton from Xinjiang, a region linked to Uyghur labor concerns.
• Trade tensions with the U.S., especially after former President Donald Trump imposed new tariffs on Chinese imports.

This move allows China to:
✅ Fine PVH Corp.
✅ Restrict its exports and imports
✅ Revoke work permits for its employees in China
✅ Deny PVH’s entry into the Chinese market

How Will This Impact Calvin Klein & Tommy Hilfiger?

• China is a key market for PVH, contributing 6% of its total sales and 16% of its earnings in 2023.
• The company manufactures 18% of its products in China. If blocked, it could cause:
  • Production delays
  • Inventory shortages
  • Quality control issues
• PVH operates dozens of stores in China, which could be forced to shut down.
• Chinese authorities could deport PVH staff, disrupting business operations.

What’s the Bigger Picture?

• PVH’s blacklisting is seen as a warning to other U.S. businesses operating in China.
• Major companies like Nike, Apple, General Motors, and Starbucks could be targeted next.
• The move strengthens China’s bargaining position in trade negotiations with the U.S.

Can PVH Survive This?

• PVH has factories in 30+ countries, but shifting production takes time and risks quality issues.
• The company has issued a statement saying it is “deeply disappointed” and is seeking a resolution.
• Experts predict that China will not back down easily, using PVH as leverage against U.S. trade policies.

Key Takeaways

✅ Calvin Klein & Tommy Hilfiger face serious business risks in China due to trade war tensions.
✅ PVH’s manufacturing and retail operations are at stake, with possible store closures and supply chain disruptions.
✅ This could be the start of a broader crackdown on U.S. brands doing business in China.

PVH must now adapt quickly, find new manufacturing partners, and develop strategies to reduce reliance on China. This is a defining moment for global brands navigating the complexities of international trade.