The never-ending hype around China Mart and Thailand Haul
Both Thailand Haul and China Mart offer something uniquely desirable to young Bangladeshi consumers: the illusion of imported luxury at a fraction of the price
The hype began on TikTok and Facebook. Local influencers started posting fashion and skincare haul videos, proudly holding up flowy wrap dresses, satin co-ords, pastel sunscreens, and knockoff designer bags.
And viewers could not get enough. Before long, the comments on every haul video were filled with people eager to know where they could get their hands on the same items.
That is when names like Thailand Haul and China Mart started floating to the surface, and since then, their popularity has not slowed down.
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Both Thailand Haul and China Mart offer something uniquely desirable to young Bangladeshi consumers: the illusion of imported luxury at a fraction of the price.
Blending fashion with functionality
What makes Thailand Haul especially popular is the way it blends fashion with functionality. Many of their clothes are perfect for Dhaka's climate. Their dresses are light, breathable, and fashionable without being too flashy.
You will find soft cotton co-ord sets, flowy maxi dresses, flared trousers, and linen jumpsuits, styles that are hard to come by in local markets.
"The quality always surprises me," said Maisha, a university student.
"The fabric feels better than what you'd usually find in local markets. You can tell these are products made for export. There's this quiet confidence in wearing something that isn't easily available everywhere else."
Besides clothes, Thailand Haul is also a favourite spot for skincare lovers. They stock a wide range of products, mostly from Thailand.
You will find sunscreens, sleeping masks, face serums, and more. Popular Thai brands like Cathy Doll are neatly displayed in the front, and their Japanese collection is a hit too.
"I tried a Thai sunscreen that one of the shop employees recommended," said Shamsia Alam, a regular customer. "It worked great in this humid weather. I didn't expect a Tk 950 sunscreen to feel this good."
One of their bestselling items is the Fino hair mask from Japan. It's known for making hair super soft and shiny, and it often sells out really fast.
Farzana Alam, an employee, said, "Most of our customers are women in their 20s and 30s, working professionals on a budget or young mums who want to look stylish without spending too much."
"Vacation dresses, co-ords, and linen jumpsuits are our most popular items. Clothes usually start as low as Tk500. Skincare starts from Tk700, depending on the brand."
China Mart: Where glam meets affordability
China Mart, on the other hand, thrives on bold, glamorous accessories that look high-end but come at a fraction of the price.
Step into any of their outlets, and you'll be greeted by shelves stacked with designer-inspired handbags. From quilted crossbodies and glossy totes to glittery sling bags with gold chains, the bags are undeniably the stars of the show.
Most are modelled after luxury labels like YSL, Dior, or Michael Kors, but with one big difference: the price tag. While an authentic version of these would cost several times more, China Mart offers them for around Tk6,000.
Rifat, an employee at China Mart shares, "Customers want the luxury look without the heavy price. We call them the premium dupes, they look just like the originals but are far more affordable."
It's not just bags, though. China Mart constantly updates its collection to keep up with social media trends. "If something's trending on TikTok or Instagram, chances are we'll have it in stock, or something very close," Rifat added.
Their watches are another crowd favourite, mimicking sleek luxury brands with metallic straps and minimalist dials, typically priced starting from Tk1,000 and above, depending on the brand and quality. Again, a fraction of what you would pay for the real thing.
Why are these stores so popular?
"These aren't the mass-produced items we usually see in local markets," said Rifat. "Every week we bring in different collections, bags with unique patterns, Korean-style sunglasses, belts that copy exact Zara designs."
Most of their items are sourced from Thailand, China, and occasionally Malaysia. While these products aren't original luxury brands, the finish, detailing, and even the packaging closely resemble high-end labels. That is part of the charm: they look premium without the premium price tag.
Farzana explained: "Our customers love that they can get a full look, from sunglasses to a designer-looking bag, all under Tk6,000."
The growing popularity of shops like Thailand Haul and China Mart also reflects a shift in how young people in Dhaka are thinking about fashion.
With social media exposing them to international trends, many have become more style-conscious but remain realistic about their budgets. These stores meet them right in the middle, offering clothes and accessories that feel aspirational, yet remain accessible.
"Before, people thought you had to shop at branded outlets or bring things from abroad to look polished," Farzana added. "Now they realise a Tk900 co-ord set and a good serum can do the job just as well."
In today's tightening economy, affordable imported fashion has become the sweet spot between luxury splurges and low-quality local options. These stores are filling that gap.
"After all, fashion is all about making conscious choices, isn't it?" Farzana concluded with a smile.
