The eastern Chinese city of Yiwu, widely known as the "world's supermarket", has seen a surge in overseas gift orders as international buyers arrive nearly six months early to prepare for year-end holidays.
Statistics show that billions of U.S. dollars' worth of holiday gift products are exported from Yiwu every year, accounting for nearly 80 percent of the world's supply.
Recently, the section for overseas holiday gift products at Yiwu International Trade Market has been bustling with foreign buyers browsing shelves stocked with a wide variety of festive merchandise.
"I'm here early because I know that shipping can take up to two months just to get to the other side of the world. That's where I am in Australia. And Australian retail usually has their products and decorations on the shelf a good three months before. I need to be ahead of the game to make sure I have my stuff on shelves ready for Australians to prepare for such an important holiday season," said Jamie Walters, an Australian buyer. With lengthy shipping times and the need to stock store shelves well in advance, this time of year consistently marks the peak season for international holiday gift orders in Yiwu.
As the world's largest production hub for holiday gift products, Yiwu offers a fully integrated supply chain -- from manufacturing and packaging to sales -- covering tens of thousands of product categories, including toys, festive costumes, and decorative lighting. Buyers from around the world can find everything they need for the holiday gift season -- all in Yiwu.
"It has been quite busy lately, and order volumes are looking strong. We have actually seen some growth this year compared to last year. Our main export markets are South America, the Middle East, and Europe. Customers are especially drawn to our products because of the wide selection and distinctive designs we offer," said Lu Furong, a local merchant.
Yiwu's exports boom as holiday gift shopping peaks early
Yiwu's exports boom as holiday gift shopping peaks early
