Ningbo's foreign trade import and export volume ranked among the "top 10 national companies" for the first time
According to the latest report from Ningbo Customs, the city's total foreign trade import and export volume reached an impressive $82.904 billion last year. This milestone placed Ningbo among the top ten cities in China for foreign trade, marking a significant achievement in its economic development. Notably, one-third of the city's population is employed in sectors directly or indirectly linked to foreign trade, highlighting the sector's crucial role in local employment and economic stability.
In the ranking of 36 provinces, municipalities, and autonomous regions by the Ministry of Commerce, Ningbo ranked ninth nationally and second among cities with separate planning. It has surpassed major regions like Tianjin and Liaoning, demonstrating strong growth and competitiveness in international trade.
So why is Ningbo’s foreign trade engine accelerating? Qiu Zhiming, president of Beifa Group, recalls his early days as a foreign trader. In April 1993, he attended the Canton Fair carrying just a box of ballpoint pens in simple wooden packaging, hoping to secure a small order. His first foreign trade deal was only $20,000. Today, Beifa Group is not only China’s largest pen manufacturer but also ranks third globally. Its exports now exceed $100 million annually, showcasing the dramatic transformation of a small startup into a global player.
Beifa Group is just one example of many companies in Ningbo that began their journey through foreign trade. Decades ago, farmers from Ninghai traveled together to the Canton Fair, but today, some of these enterprises have become self-operated exporters, achieving over $162 million in exports last year—half of the total output of local foreign trade firms. These companies now engage in high-level business discussions with international clients, reflecting their evolution and expertise.
Over the years, "Made in Ningbo" has evolved from "Ningbo Copy" to "Ningbo Innovation," moving away from imitation and focusing on value addition. The products are becoming lighter, smarter, and more technologically advanced, which has significantly increased their export value.
Ningbo has produced several well-known "export champions" such as Dunhuang Brand polyester sewing thread, Baifa and Rongcheng ballpoint pens, Great Wall tape measures, Shuanglu batteries, and Haitian injection molding machines. Additionally, the city is a leader in exporting water dispensers, electric irons, hair dryers, heaters, twin-cylinder washing machines, power outlets, and other household appliances, each holding the title of national export "single champion."
Currently, out of every $100 worth of "Made in China" exports, at least $5.5 comes from Ningbo. This highlights the city's growing influence in global trade.
The contribution of foreign trade to Ningbo’s economy continues to rise. According to internationally accepted calculations, every $100 million in exports can create around 10,000 jobs in China. With last year’s exports totaling $51.96 billion, this equates to over 5.2 million job opportunities. In fact, one out of every three people employed in Ningbo is directly or indirectly involved in foreign trade, according to Ding Haibin, a spokesperson for the Foreign Trade and Economic Cooperation Bureau. This clearly shows how vital foreign trade is to the city’s economic health and future growth.
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