The 33rd Summer Olympics in Paris wasn’t just a stage for athletic excellence; it was also a showcase for Chinese intelligent manufacturing. From decorative souvenirs to high-tech sports equipment, products marked \"made in China\" and \"made in Yiwu, China\" were prominently featured throughout the event.
Yiwu: China's Manufacturing Hub
Yiwu, often referred to as the \"world's supermarket,\" demonstrated its pivotal role in global manufacturing. In the first half of this year alone, Yiwu's import and export value reached 324.77 billion yuan ($44.97 billion), marking a 20.8% year-on-year increase. Exports surged by 21.4%, with sports goods and equipment leading the charge with a 42.3% growth, totaling 5.02 billion yuan.
The success of sports events like the European Championship and the Olympics has fueled a global passion for sports, creating ample opportunities for Yiwu's manufacturers to meet the high demand. Yiwu’s robust product base and comprehensive industrial chain enable rapid production and delivery, securing numerous orders for international events.
The Evolution of Chinese Manufacturing
Yiwu exemplifies the transformation of Chinese manufacturing from small workshops to smart and digital factories. The shift from low-value OEMs to high-end, innovative manufacturers has elevated the technological level and added value of Chinese products on the global stage.
China’s manufacturing ecosystem has matured, integrating design, manufacturing, sales, and export processes to form a cohesive industrial chain. This evolution has fostered the growth of independent brands and facilitated their overseas expansion, particularly in high-tech sectors like smart home appliances, new energy vehicles, and professional equipment.
For 14 consecutive years, China has maintained its position as the world's largest manufacturing sector, playing a crucial role in the global supply chain. The ongoing transition towards high-end, intelligent, and green development underscores China’s commitment to sustainable and innovative manufacturing practices.
At the Paris Olympics, the impact of this transformation was evident. Sports mats used in judo and wrestling events, developed by Taishan Sports, featured smart chips and flexible piezoelectric film technology. These innovations allow athletes and coaches to access data on force, speed, and movement trajectories, enhancing performance and training.
Yiwu’s contribution to the Olympics highlights the dynamic and evolving nature of Chinese manufacturing, reinforcing its status as a leader in intelligent manufacturing and global trade.
Reference(s):
Chinese manufacturing in Olympics & China's development through Yiwu
cgtn.com
