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Billionaire Profile
Chen Tei-fu
Global Rank
#1696

Chen Tei-fu

CEO, Herbal products
Los Angeles, California
Real-Time Net Worth
$2.47B
Estimated based on Herbal products stock value as of September 10, 2026
0% (24h)
Age
77
Source
Herbal products
Industry
Fashion & Retail
Citizenship
Taiwan

Biography

Chen Tei-fu, a self-made billionaire born in Taiwan, is the founder and chairman of Sunrider International, a global manufacturer of herbal products. His journey began with a childhood marked by poor health and a reliance on traditional Chinese herbal remedies, which sparked his lifelong passion. Chen, along with his wife Oi-Lin Chen, transformed their shared belief in herbal nutrition into a multi-level marketing empire. With a current net worth of $2.5 billion as of 2024, Chen's career includes founding Sunrider in 1982, which has expanded to operate in nearly 50 countries. His achievements also encompass ownership of several hotels and recognition as one of Forbes Asia's '25 Most Notable Chinese-Americans' in 2010. Chen's commitment to quality and his focus on holistic health have been central to Sunrider's success.

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Data Updated
Sep 10, 2026
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Wealth Over Time

Net Worth History

YearNet Worth
2026$2.47B
2025$2.50B
2024$2.50B

Portfolio Holdings

Sunrider International

Sunrider International

fashion-retail
Torrance, California
500 (1997 est.) employees
Founded 1982

In-Depth Profile

Early Life

Chen Tei-fu was born in Chiayi, Taiwan, in 1948. Growing up after World War II, he experienced poor health, which led him to rely on traditional Chinese herbal remedies prescribed by his grandfather. This early exposure ignited his passion for herbalism and traditional Chinese medicine. Chen's early life experiences shaped his dedication to health and nutrition.

Rise to Success

In 1974, Chen and his wife, Oi-Lin Chen, immigrated to the United States. He studied microbiology at Brigham Young University. In 1982, Chen and his wife founded Sunrider International in Orem, Utah. The company, which initially produced herbal mixtures, later expanded to include a wide array of products, including cosmetics and household cleaners. Sunrider employed a multi-level marketing strategy. Over the years, Sunrider expanded globally, establishing manufacturing facilities and retail stores in numerous countries.

Key Business Strategies

Chen's business philosophy centers on quality and holistic health. Sunrider's products are based on ancient Chinese herbal formulas. The company has been distinguished by its focus on in-house research, development, and manufacturing, allowing for rigorous quality control. Sunrider's strategy also involves a multi-level marketing model that has helped the company reach millions of distributors and customers globally. Sunrider has over 7,000 retail stores in China.

Philanthropy

Chen has been recognized for his philanthropic endeavors. In 2009, Forbes Asia recognized him as one of Asia's leading philanthropists. Chen and his wife made a $2.5 million donation towards the construction of the Torrance Memorial Medical Center's Lundquist Tower. Sunrider has also been involved in supporting charitable causes worldwide.

Career Milestones

1982

Founded Sunrider International

Co-founded Sunrider International with his wife, Oi-Lin Chen, initially in Orem, Utah.

1990

Received honorary doctorate

Received an honorary doctorate of agriculture from the Chinese Culture University in Taipei, Taiwan.

2010

Recognized by Forbes Asia

Selected by Forbes Asia as one of the "25 most notable Chinese-Americans".

Philanthropy & Social Impact

Healthcare

Torrance Memorial Medical Center Donation

$2.5M

Donation towards the construction of the Torrance Memorial Medical Center's Lundquist Tower.

Business Philosophy & Leadership

Notable Quotes

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

Leadership Principles

Quality First

Prioritizing the quality of products by carefully selecting ingredients and overseeing all aspects of manufacturing.

Holistic Health

Focusing on products that promote overall health and wellness, combining ancient Chinese herbalism with modern science.

Controversies & Challenges

1995

Tax Evasion and Art Smuggling Indictment

Indicted on charges of tax evasion, money laundering, and customs fraud. The Chens paid over $100 million in back taxes, interest, and penalties.

Billionaires Connected to Chen Tei-fu

Peers in Fashion & Retail

All Fashion & Retail billionaires

Richest in Taiwan

All billionaires from Taiwan

Adjacent Global Ranks

Full global ranking

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Chen Tei-fu's net worth in 2026?
As of 2026, Chen Tei-fu's estimated net worth is $2.472 billion, ranking #1696 among the world's billionaires. The estimate is based on publicly available shareholding data and market prices, updated daily.
How did Chen Tei-fu make their money?
Chen Tei-fu's wealth primarily comes from Herbal products, most notably through Herbal products.
Where is Chen Tei-fu from?
Chen Tei-fu is from Taiwan.
How old is Chen Tei-fu?
Chen Tei-fu is 77 years old.

Sources & References

  1. Chen Tei-fu — Forbes profile Forbes