In the bustling city of Cixi, often dubbed the "capital of home appliances" in the Chinese mainland, a local manufacturer is making waves far beyond its borders—one ice cube at a time. The company, featured in a recent CGTN documentary, has transformed the humble icemaker into a global commodity, crafting everything from classic cubes to trendy chewable ice and cocktail-ready spheres.
Walking through the factory floor, workers calibrate machines that produce 20 tons of ice daily, catering to clients in over 50 countries and regions. "Our designs prioritize both functionality and creativity," said CEO Li Wei, holding up a translucent sphere destined for a high-end Tokyo bar. "Demand has surged as hotels, restaurants, and households seek specialized cooling solutions."
Analysts attribute the firm’s success to Cixi’s robust supply chain ecosystem and China’s growing dominance in precision manufacturing. With exports rising 35% year-on-year, the factory exemplifies how niche markets can drive economic growth. Meanwhile, sustainability remains a focus: the company recycles 90% of its water and uses solar energy to power 30% of its operations.
For travelers and cultural enthusiasts, Cixi’s industrial innovation adds a unique stop to Zhejiang province’s tourism map. For investors, it’s a case study in scaling hyper-specialized products globally—one frosty step at a time.
