For many foreign tourists visiting the southern Chinese metropolis of Shenzhen, Huaqiangbei, one of the world's largest electronics markets, is a must-visit destination.
Known for its countless small shops selling a wide variety of electronic gadgets, Huaqiangbei has become a shopping hub for international visitors, with many leaving the city carrying suitcases packed with the latest tech products.
Dubbed "China's No. 1 Electronics Street," Huaqiangbei is a major hub for electronics commerce and manufacturing, drawing more than 7,000 foreign visitors every day. With over 110,000 businesses operating in the area, it's a bustling marketplace offering everything from smartphones to smart home appliances and high-tech gadgets.
"This is basically my sixth time here in Huaqiangbei," said a Colombian buyer.
He purchased a Chinese-made tracker, which offers more advanced features than foreign brands he had used before, such as the ability to track an item's movement for up to seven days.
"This is a very good product. I buy many of those to send to my country," he said.
Meanwhile, a French businessman was attracted to a counter selling automatic translation devices.
Huaqiangbei offers not only a wide variety of goods, but also services such as currency exchange, packaging, and international logistics, making it a one-stop shopping destination for foreign visitors. Tourists can shop on the upper floors and ship their purchases downstairs, ensuring a hassle-free experience.
"I think China is improving. All the products are good," said another foreign customer in Huaqiangbei.
As the number of foreign buyers grows, Huaqiangbei has established a volunteer team, whose members work in their spare time to provide free services to both customers and merchants.
Andy, a volunteer from the U.S. said that when he heard Huaqiangbei was recruiting volunteers, he signed up right away. This volunteer work allowed him to witness firsthand the rapid pace of technological advancements in China.
"The variety of [products] here is really amazing. There are many goods, just different specifications at any wallet (price). Variety is one of the words that I would love to say. That's really great," said Andy.
With the surging popularity of "China Travel," foreign tourists' shopping enthusiasm is also on the rise.
According to data from the Shenzhen Customs, as of May 25, foreign tourists had purchased tax-refunded goods in Shenzhen worth 67.73 million yuan (about 9.42 million U.S. dollars), with a tax refund totaling 6.10 million yuan (about 847,940 U.S. dollars).
Foreign visitors flock to Shenzhen for electronics amid "China Shopping" boom
