What Products Does Nike Manufacture in China? Is Original Nike Still Made in the USA?

Nike is one of the most iconic sportswear brands in the world, known for innovation, performance, and global appeal. However, a common question among shoppers is: Where are Nike products really made? Are the Nike shoes labeled “Made in China” authentic? And does Nike still manufacture anything in the United States?

In this blog, we’ll explore Nike’s production operations in China, what products are made there, the status of Nike manufacturing in the USA, and the potential risk of Chinese factories turning into competitors using Nike’s own technologies.

Is Nike Actually Made in China?

Yes — and not only is this true, but China plays a major role in Nike’s global supply chain. Contrary to popular belief, “Made in China” does not mean a product is fake. In fact, a large portion of Nike’s genuine products are made there.

According to Nike’s own supply chain data:

• Roughly 25% of all Nike shoes are manufactured in China.

• This equates to 190–200 million pairs of shoes per year from Chinese factories alone.

• Out of Nike’s global output (estimated at over 780 million pairs annually), this is a substantial share.

What Products Does Nike Manufacture in China?

Nike’s Chinese contract factories focus primarily on footwear and apparel. These include popular sneaker lines such as:

• Nike Air Max

• Nike Tanjun

• Nike Revolution

• Nike Court Vision

• And various mid-range models tailored to Asian and European markets

China also produces a wide range of sportswear, accessories, and textile-based products under the Nike brand.

How Many Factories Does Nike Have in China?

Nike doesn’t own factories directly. Instead, it works with third-party manufacturers — large contract facilities that specialize in mass production.

According to public supply chain disclosures:

• There are approximately 10–15 major factories in China working directly with Nike.

• These are primarily located in Fujian, Guangdong, and Zhejiang provinces — regions known for advanced industrial infrastructure and footwear production.

 Does Nike Still Manufacture in the USA?

Yes, but on a very limited scale. Most of Nike’s U.S. operations are focused on design, innovation, and R&D — not mass production.

Key U.S. Facilities Include:

1. Nike Air Manufacturing Innovation (Nike Air MI)

• Location: Missouri and Oregon

• Specialization: Manufacturing Air soles for Air Max and similar lines

2. Nike World Headquarters – Beaverton, Oregon

• Role: Product design, prototyping, lab testing, and technology development

Important Note: These facilities do not handle large-scale production. Final assembly is typically done overseas, including in China, Vietnam, and Indonesia.

Can Chinese Factories Leak Nike Technology and Become Competitors?

Yes — and in some cases, they already have.

This is one of the biggest risks in global manufacturing: when brands outsource innovation, there's always the chance that factories or staff may leverage that expertise to create competing brands or products.

Real-World Examples of Chinese Brands That Emerged From OEM Roots:

ANTA

• China’s largest domestic sportswear brand

• Former supplier to Western brands

• Acquired Fila and became an international player

LI-NING

• Founded by Chinese Olympic gymnast Li Ning

• Known for its advanced basketball and performance shoes

• Worn by NBA players and Olympic athletes

Xtep, Peak, and 361°

• All started with contract manufacturing for global labels

• Now run successful, independent Chinese sportswear businesses

How Does Nike Protect Its Technology and Designs?

Nike takes multiple measures to prevent technology leakage, including:

• Strict NDAs (non-disclosure agreements) with factories and personnel

• Segmented manufacturing — e.g., Air units made in the U.S., but final assembly abroad

• Frequent audits and compliance inspections of its suppliers

Still, no system is foolproof, especially in regions with strong industrial capabilities and high levels of internal innovation like China.

Are Chinese Brands Becoming a Threat to Nike?

Absolutely.

Chinese sportswear companies are growing rapidly and competing not just on price, but increasingly on quality, performance, and branding.

In recent years:

• Nike has lost market share in China

• ANTA and LI-NING have seen double-digit sales growth

• These brands are expanding internationally, targeting markets in Asia, Africa, and even parts of Europe

Conclusion

Final Thoughts

If you're buying Nike sneakers and see a "Made in China" label, don't panic — it's likely authentic. Many of Nike’s best-selling lines are assembled in China under strict quality standards. However, the rise of Chinese competitor brands is undeniable, and in the coming years, we may see even more disruption in the sportswear market driven by factories that once produced for Western giants like Nike.