China light industry maintained solid expansion from 2021 to 2024, reflecting strong resilience and steady economic contribution. During the 14th Five-Year Plan period, the sector consistently increased output and supported millions of jobs.
The China National Light Industry Council reported that by 2024, China had 140,000 enterprises in its light manufacturing sector exceeding designated size thresholds. These companies employed 17.92 million people, highlighting the importance of the nation’s light manufacturing sector. Exports from China’s light manufacturing industry reached 925.4 billion U.S. dollars, accounting for 25.9 percent of total export value. The sector led all industries in export performance for the fifth consecutive year.
Zhang Chonghe, head of the council, said the nation’s light manufacturing sector is undergoing steady structural upgrades. Emerging segments such as smart appliances, new-energy batteries, and electric bicycles are expanding rapidly. “These areas drive innovation and boost the overall competitiveness of China’s light manufacturing industry,” Zhang said.
China plans to increase the operating revenue of its light industry to over 30 trillion yuan, about 4.22 trillion U.S. dollars, by 2030. This target implies an average annual growth rate of at least 5 percent. The government also plans to strengthen research capabilities. More than 300 key national laboratories and engineering research centers should operate by 2030.
The council emphasized intellectual property development as a priority. Companies in China light industry are projected to grow valid invention patents by 15 percent annually. These patents will foster innovation across both traditional and emerging segments. Experts said these advances strengthen China’s global competitiveness in light manufacturing.
Several companies already lead in smart manufacturing. For example, SinceTech, a shoe material textile company in Jinjiang, Fujian Province, operates a smart workshop integrating automation and digital technologies. This approach demonstrates broader trends in China light industry toward modernization and high-tech adoption.
Looking ahead, policymakers aim to promote innovation-driven growth, increase exports, and generate new jobs. These efforts should keep the nation’s light manufacturing sector as a cornerstone of economic development, driving technological progress and boosting global trade performance.
