China's city of lights: Made in Zhongshan lights dazzle the world

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02:26

Known as the City of Lights, Guzhen Town in Zhongshan City, south China's Guangdong Province, produces 70 percent of the lights in the country.

It hosted the country's most spectacular lighting extravaganza, 2018 Guzhen Lighting Expo in October.

Ou Bingwen, chairman of one of the biggest light producers Huayi Lighting, had witnessed the growth of the township.

Ou was among the first in town to get into the sector over 30 years ago, after recognizing the great potential for such a business.

He said what he has achieved has gone way far beyond what expected.

"Our factory started in a thatched house, making simple lamps," Ou recalled. "We used to do the purchasing on bicycles. Back then, my biggest dream was to go by car, a BMW if things go really well."

The company has surpassed that goal. Lights made in Zhongshan, including those from Ou's company, can be found around the world: from Disneyland, Starbucks stores, to Olympic venues and the most high profile global summits including the G20 summit in Hangzhou.

Ou looked back on the past three decades and said striving to be trustworthy is part of his company, as well as the town's secret formula for success.

The market might change but you have to maintain dependable details, Ou said. "And we always prioritized craftsmanship. That's going to carry us far."

It is not the only company working to get into the limelight.

Star Alliance Market, Asia's biggest market for lights, is also in Guzhen. It hosts several hundred brands, most of which are local. The market has exported lights to 130 countries and regions around the world.

The 10-story market is a scenic spot in itself. And it's working to achieve greater success globally.

Hammond Sabery, from South Africa, has been a regular visitor to the market over the last four years.

"I come here every six months, for good design, good quality, for what my clients would want [to bring] back home," he told CGTN.

Ou Gengquan, chairperson with the marketplace, said, "The market has seen a growing number of international buyers since it began operation, especially from Southeast Asia and Europe. We plan to better meet their needs."

There are about 9,000 companies in the lighting business in Guzhen, Zhongshan.