Billionaire Profile
Chen Tei-fu
Global Rank
#1660

Image: Public domain | via Wikimedia Commons

Chen Tei-fu

CEO, Sunrider International
TW
Real-Time Net Worth
$2.35B
As of December 2025
Age
77
Source
Herbal products
Industry
fashion-retail
Citizenship
TW

Biography

Chen Tei-fu, a 77-year-old Taiwanese entrepreneur, is primarily known for founding Sunrider International, a company specializing in herbal products. His journey began with a deep interest in traditional Chinese herbal remedies, which he developed during his childhood. Chen's source of wealth stems from Sunrider, a fashion & retail industry company that distributes products in over 50 countries. With a current net worth of $2.35 billion, Chen's career includes overcoming challenges and building a global enterprise. His leadership principles emphasize the importance of quality and long-term vision, as demonstrated through his extensive involvement in the development, research, and manufacturing processes of Sunrider products.

Wealth Over Time

In-Depth Profile

Early Life

Born in Taiwan in 1948, Tei-Fu Chen's early life was marked by health challenges. His grandfather's use of Chinese herbal remedies to improve his well-being sparked a lifelong passion. Chen later studied Chinese medicine and pharmacy, immigrating to the United States with his wife, Oi-Lin, with dreams of medical careers.

Rise to Success

After facing challenges, including rejection from medical schools, Chen started preparing herbal mixtures in his apartment. In 1982, he founded Sunrider International with his wife, Oi-Lin. Through multi-level marketing, Chen focused on creating supplements to keep the body healthy. This marked a turning point, leading to Sunrider's growth into a global enterprise. By 2007, Sunrider had grown to become one of the world's most profitable herbal foods and skincare products companies.

Key Business Strategies

Chen's business strategies centered on quality control, innovation, and family involvement. Sunrider’s strategy emphasized the importance of controlling the entire production process, from formulation to manufacturing. Furthermore, Chen's leadership instilled a strong emphasis on the Philosophy of Regeneration, emphasizing balanced living through proper nutrition and health supplements. Chen and his wife, along with their five children, are involved in senior positions within the company.

Philanthropy

Chen's philanthropic activities have included donations to Torrance Memorial Medical Center, UNICEF, and natural disaster relief efforts. He was recognized by Forbes Asia in 2009 as one of Asia's leading philanthropists.

Career Milestones

1982

Founded Sunrider International

Tei-Fu Chen founded Sunrider International with his wife, Oi-Lin Chen.

2009

Recognized by Forbes Asia as one of Asia's leading philanthropists

Forbes Asia recognized Chen for his charitable contributions.

2010

Named one of Taiwan's 50 wealthiest natives

Chen was listed among Taiwan's wealthiest individuals.

2010

Named one of the "25 Most Notable Chinese-Americans"

Chen was recognized for his impact in business in the US.

Philanthropy & Social Impact

Healthcare

Torrance Memorial Medical Center

$2.5M

Chen donated to support the construction of a new surgical center.

International Aid

UNICEF

Unknown

Chen has contributed to UNICEF.

Business Philosophy & Leadership

Notable Quotes

"Doing business is like playing chess. While making a move, plan ahead your next move."

Leadership Principles

Focus on Quality and Nutrition

Emphasizing the use of herbal remedies for health, and overseeing the entire production process to ensure product quality.

Long-Term Vision

Planning ahead and understanding that it takes time to achieve results.

Controversies & Challenges

1998

Tax Evasion and Customs Fraud

Chen and his wife, Oi-Lin, pleaded guilty to tax evasion and customs fraud, resulting in a prison sentence for Chen and fines for the couple.