Fact check: Certaines marques chinoises comme Temu ont abandonné le marché américain

1. Summary of the results

Based on the analyses provided, the claim that Chinese brands like Temu have abandoned the US market is not supported by the evidence. While Temu has experienced significant operational challenges in the United States, the company has not completely withdrawn from the market.

The data shows that Temu experienced a dramatic decline in US user engagement, with sources reporting a 58% drop in daily US users in May ^[1], a 52% drop in US daily active users ^[2], and a 51% drop in monthly active users ^[3]. Additionally, there was a significant decrease in ad spending in the US market ^[1].

However, rather than abandoning the market entirely, Temu has adapted its business model. The company is overhauling its shipping model and will now handle all US sales through locally based sellers ^[4]. Furthermore, Temu plans to raise prices for US customers due to tariffs rather than exit the market ^[5].

2. Missing context/alternative viewpoints

The original statement lacks crucial context about the underlying causes of Temu's struggles in the US market. The analyses reveal that these challenges stem from the end of the 'de minimis' loophole ^[1] and the broader US-China trade war ^[6], which have significantly impacted Chinese e-commerce operations.

An important missing perspective is that Temu is strategically pivoting to Europe for growth while maintaining its US presence ^[2]. This represents a strategic reallocation of resources rather than a complete market abandonment. The company recognizes that "the US is too big to quit" ^[6], indicating a long-term commitment despite current challenges.

The statement also fails to acknowledge that Chinese companies across various sectors are still actively pursuing US market entry. Sources discussing the automotive sector show that Chinese automakers are poised to disrupt the US market ^[7] and that Chinese cars will enter the US market according to auto executives ^[8].

3. Potential misinformation/bias in the original statement

The original statement contains significant factual inaccuracies by claiming that Temu has "abandoned" the US market. This characterization is misleading and not supported by the evidence, which shows the company is adapting its operations rather than withdrawing entirely.

The statement demonstrates selective interpretation of data, focusing only on declining metrics while ignoring Temu's strategic adaptations and continued market presence. This creates a false narrative of complete market exit when the reality is more nuanced.

There may be underlying motivations for promoting this narrative. US competitors and policymakers would benefit from the perception that Chinese e-commerce platforms are failing in the American market, as this could reduce competitive pressure and support protectionist trade policies. Similarly, European markets and competitors might benefit from the narrative that Chinese companies are retreating from major Western markets.

The timing of this claim is also significant, as it coincides with increased trade tensions and regulatory changes that genuinely impact Chinese companies' operations, making the exaggerated claim more believable to casual observers.