America, China sees your Chinamaxxing. It's drawing laughs, national pride, and some eye rolls.
Business Insider
February 26, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The "Chinamaxxing" trend has taken over TikTok, with non-Chinese Americans embracing Chinese cultural practices such as boiling apples, practicing tai chi, or drinking hot water, often accompanied by traditional Chinese music. This phenomenon has sparked mixed reactions in China, where some view it as a positive sign of curiosity and respect for Chinese culture, while others find the imitations cringeworthy or culturally appropriative.
On platforms like RedNote, Chinese users have expressed a range of emotions, from pride at seeing global interest in their traditions to discomfort over what they perceive as superficial模仿 (mimicry). Some creators have gone as far as misrepresenting Lunar New Year customs, leading to criticism within the Chinese community. Despite these concerns, others see "Chinamaxxing" as a cultural victory, highlighting China's influence and soft power in the global arena.
From a business perspective, this trend reflects shifting perceptions of China among younger Americans, potentially offering opportunities for cultural exchange and marketing. Jacob Cooke, CEO of WPIC Marketing + Technologies, notes that while many Chinese see "Chinamaxxing" as a positive reflection of their culture, others worry about appropriation, particularly those with international experience.
Ultimately, "Chinamaxxing" underscores the complexities of cross-cultural exchanges in the digital age. While it may signal mutual curiosity and respect, it also raises questions aboutauthenticity and cultural representation. As global audiences increasingly seek to connect through shared traditions, businesses must navigate these dynamics carefully, balancing
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Originally published on Business Insider on 2/26/2026