Published by ChinaMNC · Jinping

Yiwu Toy Industry Association Visits Shantou: Supply Chain Lessons for Foreign Founders

A Yiwu toy industry delegation visited Shantou's Chenghai district to explore the toy supply chain and the 25th Shantou Chenghai International Toy and Gift Expo, highlighting opportunities for foreign founders in China's toy manufacturing sector.

Yiwu Toy Delegation Explores Shantou's Toy Supply Chain

On the afternoon of October 27, a delegation from the Yiwu Toy Industry Association arrived in Shantou ahead of the 25th Shantou Chenghai International Toy and Gift Expo. The visit underscores the importance of Chenghai as a global toy manufacturing hub and offers valuable insights for foreign founders looking to establish or expand operations in China's toy industry.

During the visit, entrepreneurs from Yiwu conducted an in-depth inspection of Chenghai's toy supply chain. They toured two key locations: Gaodesi Precision Technology Co., Ltd. and Chenghai Toy Park. These visits allowed the delegation to witness firsthand the intelligent manufacturing upgrades within Chenghai's toy sector. The trip also facilitated business matchmaking and discussions on industrial cooperation, aiming to leverage the complementary strengths of Yiwu as a sales platform and Chenghai as a production base to jointly explore international markets.

Observations from a Returning Visitor

Zhang Zhimin, Deputy Secretary-General of the Yiwu Toy Industry Association and General Manager of Jinhua Hengxin Toy Co., Ltd., shared her impressions. This was her fifth visit to Chenghai, and she noted the rapid annual changes: "It feels like there's a major transformation every year, from road construction to factory upgrades, and many showrooms have been upgraded as well. These modern facilities and unmanned workshops are truly impressive."

Her comments highlight the ongoing modernization of Chenghai's manufacturing capabilities, which could be attractive for foreign founders seeking reliable, high-quality production partners.

Expo Features and Opportunities

The 25th Shantou Chenghai International Toy and Gift Expo is notable as the only toy exhibition in mainland China to receive UFI (Global Association of the Exhibition Industry) certification. This year's expo covers a full range of product categories, including AI smart toys, 3D-printed toys, trendy building blocks, and IP derivatives. Special zones include a 3D Printing Ecosystem Pavilion, an AI Toy Ecosystem Exhibition Area, a "Token Going Global" zone, and an official matchmaking area for cross-border platforms. These features provide a one-stop solution for buyers to select products, connect with suppliers, and expand their customer base.

For foreign founders, such expos offer a concentrated view of the latest trends and technologies in the toy industry, as well as opportunities to meet potential manufacturing partners and explore cross-border e-commerce channels.

Anticipation for AI and IP Products

Cao Xiaoming, Supervisor of the Yiwu Toy Industry Association and Chairman of Yiwu Zhihuixing Toy Co., Ltd., expressed strong interest in the AI products and IP trendy toys to be showcased at the expo. He believes that the annual toy expo will strengthen ties between Yiwu and Chenghai and provide better opportunities and platforms for entering international markets.

Zhang Zhimin added, "I look forward to seeing impressive new products at the expo, keeping up with new trends, and learning from them."

Complementary Strengths for Global Markets

Luo Jianfeng, President of the Yiwu Toy Industry Association and Chairman of Zhejiang Shangrong Cultural Creativity Co., Ltd., emphasized the complementary nature of the two locations: "Chenghai has the world's largest production base, while Yiwu has the world's largest sales platform. The combination of the two is indeed a perfect match." He continued, "This year, I brought leading enterprises from our entire industry to visit and learn. I hope that next year's expo will feature a display window for the Yiwu Toy Industry Association, so that the ties between our two associations can become even closer."

This cooperation model illustrates how foreign founders can benefit from integrating manufacturing in Chenghai with sales channels in Yiwu, leveraging both locations' strengths to access global markets.

Practical Takeaways for Foreign Founders

• Supply Chain Exploration: Chenghai's toy supply chain is undergoing intelligent upgrades, with modern facilities and unmanned workshops. Foreign founders should consider visiting to assess manufacturing capabilities and quality standards.
• Expo Participation: The Shantou Chenghai International Toy and Gift Expo offers a comprehensive platform to source products, connect with suppliers, and learn about industry trends. The UFI certification adds credibility to the event.
• Strategic Partnerships: Collaborations between production hubs like Chenghai and sales platforms like Yiwu can create synergies. Foreign founders can explore similar partnerships or establish a presence in both locations.
• Cross-Border Opportunities: The expo's special zones for cross-border platforms and "Token Going Global" indicate a focus on international trade, which can be leveraged by foreign founders looking to export from China.
• Local Presence: Establishing a company in China, particularly in manufacturing hubs like Shantou or trading hubs like Yiwu, can facilitate smoother operations and access to these networks.

For foreign founders considering registering a company in China, understanding these regional dynamics is crucial. Working with local associations and participating in industry events can provide valuable connections and insights.

This summary is based on information published by the relevant Chinese government website and is general information, not legal or tax advice.

Foreign founders interested in registering and operating a company in China can contact ChinaMNC on WhatsApp / WeChat at +86 153 1898 8535 for assistance.