Four decades ago, Yiwu was a quiet agricultural county in Zhejiang Province. Today, this bustling city has earned the title of "the world's supermarket," serving as a critical bridge between 2.1 million Chinese businesses and markets across 230 countries and regions.
With over 18,000 foreign merchants calling it home, Yiwu’s International Trade Market draws 220,000 daily visitors. Its sprawling network of suppliers and buyers makes it a key indicator of global consumer trends – from holiday decorations to cutting-edge tech accessories.
In a recent cultural exchange initiative, young professionals from China and Africa toured Yiwu’s commercial ecosystem. "The market’s scale is staggering," said one participant from Kenya. "But what’s more impressive is how it creates opportunities for small businesses worldwide."
Participants highlighted Yiwu’s growing role in China-Africa cooperation, particularly through streamlined trade channels for African entrepreneurs. The city’s model of combining mass production with customized orders could reshape how developing economies engage with global markets.
As digital platforms integrate with traditional wholesale systems, Yiwu continues evolving – proving that even the smallest commodities can drive international connections.
