Protecting Your Brand from Misinformation: The Impact of Anti-China Narratives on Global Markets
As the technological divide between the West and China widens, its ripple effects are being felt across industries worldwide. Businesses must navigate these evolving dynamics while safeguarding their reputations from misinformation and disinformation campaigns that could impact consumer trust.
At Faqcheck, we analyse the risks posed by misinformation, offering insights into how anti-China narratives shape market perceptions. This edition highlights key sectors vulnerable to these narratives, the risks they face, and strategies to mitigate reputational harm.
Key Findings
Anti-China rhetoric, misinformation, and disinformation are affecting multiple industries, with pharmaceuticals, automotive, and maritime security being particularly vulnerable. False narratives—ranging from exaggerated health risks to data security concerns—are shaping public perception and regulatory scrutiny. Companies engaged with China, whether through investments, partnerships, or market expansions, face significant reputation management challenges. As AI-driven innovations and global trade tensions escalate, misinformation threats are expected to grow, requiring proactive risk mitigation.
Who It Affects
The industries most affected by anti-China misinformation include:
Pharmaceuticals: Companies like Pfizer, AstraZeneca, Sanofi, and Roche with investments in China or partnerships in AI-driven healthcare are particularly at risk.
Automotive: Automakers with Chinese investments or partnerships, such as Geely, Volvo, Mercedes, Proton, and Honda, face consumer distrust and regulatory barriers.
Maritime Security: Shipping, logistics, oil and gas, and defence industries are impacted by heightened geopolitical tensions and misinformation campaigns concerning maritime disputes.
Why It Matters
Health-related misinformation spreads rapidly, and Chinese pharmaceutical products already face intense scrutiny. False claims about drug safety or origins can erode consumer trust and damage brand credibility. Meanwhile, geopolitical tensions in the automotive sector fuel misinformation about data security and trade restrictions, leading to boycotts and economic retaliation. In maritime security, anti-China disinformation amplifies trade uncertainties, increases operational costs, and fosters instability in global supply chains. Left unchecked, these narratives can reshape market dynamics, disrupt investments, and heighten risks for businesses worldwide.
Trends & Developments
Pharmaceuticals: Recent U.S. allegations linking Chinese labs to COVID-19 origins, alongside alarmist narratives about flu outbreaks, have fueled health-related misinformation. The U.S. is also concerned with the transfer of sensitive data and intellectual property, and these issues also drive anti-Chinese campaigns. Broadly speaking, medical companies associated with China faced criticism and distrust simply for being Chinese—a sentiment fueled by political tensions and trade wars.
Automotive: Chinese automaker Geely’s expansion in Southeast Asia has triggered nationalist backlash and protectionist rhetoric, threatening market stability. As one automotive expert points out, Geely’s entry into these markets could displace existing partners, potentially undermining the goals of local players like Proton in Malaysia. This shift may fuel nationalist sentiments, foster protectionism toward local brands, and contribute to anti-Chinese narratives within the industry.
Maritime Security: Anti-China rhetoric surrounding maritime disputes is intensifying. The U.S. has proposed tariffs and sanctions, while regional actors use misinformation to justify aggressive foreign policies. The spread of misleading news, deepfakes, and falsified reports distorts public perception and complicates diplomatic negotiations.
What We Anticipate & Opportunities
Pharmaceuticals: Faqcheck has seen how medical conspiracies unravel and cost a company. In our recent analysis, we’ve monitored that overhyping HMPV could potentially damage a brand’s reputation. Now, with China’s rapid advancements in technological innovation, particularly in AI-driven healthcare solutions like DeepSeek, the rhetoric could spiral even further. Our coverage of Mpox and COVID-19 has debunked numerous myths and fake news narratives that have distorted public perception and impacted hospitals and healthcare systems.
Automotive: With more Chinese brands entering global markets, nationalist sentiment can spark debates about protecting local businesses. Faqcheck observed a similar trend while covering China’s growing influence in Malaysia, where the spread of harmful content can shape public discourse, amplifying hostility and mistrust—particularly toward foreign powers like China. Automakers must navigate geopolitical risks while countering negative narratives to remain competitive in an evolving landscape. That means automotive companies with Chinese investors, ownership, or even staffing must exercise caution when navigating operations in these environments.
Maritime Security: The weaponisation of misinformation opportunity through deepfake videos and fabricated news will further complicate trade relations. Companies must develop counter-disinformation strategies to protect their interests, ensure market stability, and maintain credibility in global discussions.
