Sex Shops Now Outnumber Starbucks in China

Sex Shops Now Outnumber Starbucks in China

BEIJING — China produces 70 percent of the world's sex toys, despite strong regional taboos surrounding sexuality, and its sex shops now outnumber Starbucks.

The coffee giant has more than 1,500 stores in China, but that's small potatoes compared to the countless dispensers of condoms, vibrators and costumes. Taobao, the online retail giant operated by Alibaba Group in China, lists thousands of sex toy companies.

Best-selling merchandise include sexual arousal enhancers, like stimulus condoms, and vibrators. Given the country's one-child policy and preference for sons, there's about 116 boys born for every 100 girls. That lop-sided gender growth has led to approximately 33 million more men than women, causing intense sexual competition. Some turn to sex dolls for relief, in an increasingly popular online community where 20,000 members refer to themselves as "friends of dolls." 

Ever since the first sex shop opened in Beijing in 1993, the industry has expanded rapidly, as China's sexual culture evolved. In 2008, 180 exhibitors from eight countries came together for the 5th China International Adult Toys and Reproductive Health Exhibition, drawing more than 30,000 people. The biggest B2B expo, though, is still eroFame in Hanover, Germany.

The over $2 billion Chinese sex toy industry relies in large part on exporting, particularly to South Africa, South Korea and Russia. As for the U.S., it only accounts for a very small percentage of the Chinese export market, with an estimated 2 percent back in 2010. American sex toy companies sometimes prefer to keep their production within the States, like California-based Doc Johnson, which manufactures the majority of its products in North Hollywood. Its competitors include CalExotics and Pipedream Products.

Copyright © 2025 Adnet Media. All Rights Reserved. XBIZ is a trademark of Adnet Media.
Reproduction in whole or in part in any form or medium without express written permission is prohibited.

More News

Electric Novelties Debuts New 'Gemsations' Anal Plug Collection

Electric Novelties has introduced its Gemsations line of anal plugs in silicone and metal options.

Adam & Eve Reveals Results of 'Happy Ending Dream' Survey

Adam & Eve has released the results of a survey asking respondents if they have ever had a sex dream with a happy ending.

Kheper Releases New 'Drink if... Taboo Version' Party Game

Kheper Games has released its new "Drink if… Taboo Version" party game.

Aneros Debuts 'Eupho Syn V' From 'Vibration Collection'

Aneros has introduced the Eupho Syn V from its Vibration Collection.

Wells Apparel Group Inks Distro Deal With Kix'ies

Wells Apparel Group has signed a deal with Kix’ies, Inc. for distribution throughout 13 states.

Ohdoki Debuts 2 New Strokers

Ohdoki has introduced two new stroker sleeves.

CalExotics Debuts 2 New Pleasure Products From 'Connect' Collection

CalExotics has introduced two new pleasure products from its CalExotics Connect line.

Orion Debuts New Vibrator From 'Javida' Line

Orion Wholesale has introduced the new RC Licking Panty Vibe from its Javida line.

Fleshlight Debuts Ana Andrews Stroker

Fleshlight has introduced its new Ana Andrews Pro stroker, Succu-bust.

Svakom Launches Full Company Rebrand

Svakom has launched a rebrand of its logo and products.

Show More