North China's Hebei Province stands out as one of the country's largest ceramic exporters. Recent data shows the region exported over 700 million U.S. dollars' worth of ceramic products in the first ten months of this year. That's a year-on-year growth of more than 14 percent. Tangshan, often called the "City of Ceramics," has shown even stronger momentum. Our colleague Huang Rui from China Media Group has more.
Tangshan's ceramics legacy dates back to 1924, when the city produced China's first ceramic basin. Over the years, it has transformed from small workshops into a key production and export hub in northern China.
Evandro Burgel, a sanitary wares wholesaler from Brazil, made his first trip to Tangshan to explore its offerings. He was impressed by the innovative designs, which he believes have strong market potential in his home country.
EVANDRO BURGEL Brazilian Client "The products are very well designed, of good quality and finishing. The design is really different from other competitors in the same market."
Breaking into the global market wasn't easy for the 40-year-old sanitary ware company that Burgel visited. Initially, the company had to slash prices repeatedly to secure a foothold in the low-end market.
FU LIRONG Director of Operations and Management Huida Sanitary Ware Co. "Now we take proactive measures to stay updated on the global market and participate in major international exhibitions to attract more clients."
Today, the company offers over 2,000 products across eight categories, catering to diverse overseas demands. Its global sales and service network spans major markets, including the US, Canada, and the UK.
Tangshan Monopy Ceramic, another leading producer, has been involved in foreign trade since the 1990s. Facing fierce global competition, the company pivoted from outsourcing to focusing on original design and tailored production for international markets.
HOU JING Project Manager Tangshan Monopy Ceramic Co. "We have been engaged in foreign trade for many years. In recent years, we've noticed changes in clients' demands, which have driven us to increase our investment in R&D."
Tangshan Monopy Ceramic invests over 10 million U.S. dollars annually to enhance its techniques and equipment. Its "smart" factory impresses with automated machines working in perfect coordination.
Sanitary wares aren't Tangshan's only strength. At another factory, over 2,000 types of Bone China – an elegant pottery for daily use – are being crafted. Currently, the company is focused on fulfilling an order from Türkiye. According to the overseas sales manager, it's peak production season.
GAO RUI Overseas Sales Manager Longda Bone China Co. "We received many orders from foreign customers at the Canton Fair. From now until the eve of the Spring Festival, it's peak season for production."
Amid fierce domestic competition, China's ceramic manufacturers are carving their path in the global market. By upgrading production and tailoring designs for overseas clients, cities like Tangshan are earning recognition worldwide. Huang Rui, CGTN, Tangshan, Hebei Province.
