Yiwu Luggage Industry Thrives as Global Tourism Recovers, Attracting Increased Foreign Orders

In the world's largest small commodity distribution center, the Yiwu luggage industry is mainly concentrated in the second district market of the International Trade City, with more than 2300 luggage operators.

"Hello, boss lady, I'm here to place an order again." On March 20th, Sudanese foreign businessman Aldi, who is based in Yiwu, once again visited the store of business owner Wu Feifei. This is his third time this year to purchase women's luggage. After half an hour of negotiation between the two parties, a foreign trade order was generated, including sample inspection, color selection, and inquiry.

The purchase amount is around 200000 yuan, which is considered a moderate order. Wu Feifei, holding a note book, said with a smile, "Aldi has already purchased 500000 yuan worth of goods in the store this year, which is significantly higher than in previous years. This is mainly reflected in the quantity. For example, in previous years, only 10 pieces of a bag were ordered, but this year it has increased to 15 pieces."

This change is due to the recovery of the global tourism industry, which has brought the most direct "dividend effect". The reporter learned that two-thirds of Aldi's business is related to luggage, but in the past three years, due to the impact of the epidemic, he has been unable to come to Yiwu for procurement, resulting in a sharp decrease in procurement volume. Starting from January 8th this year, China will adjust its entry and exit policies. After learning this news, Aldi applied for a visa and bought a plane ticket as soon as possible, and arrived in Italy before the opening of the International Trade City.

"In Yiwu, everything is great, and my business is back on track. The customer's order has also come, and we will purchase more bags this year, with an expected shipment of more than 20 cabinets to be sent abroad." Aldi said that for foreign consumers, backpacks are the first choice for outdoor travel, while luggage boxes are too bulky and only used for long-distance travel or business purposes, so the demand for backpacks will be greater than that of travel boxes. As of now, Aldi's procurement volume in Yiwu has exceeded that of the entire year of 2020.

In recent years, the luggage industry in Yiwu has developed rapidly. According to Tianyancha data, there are currently more than 293000 luggage enterprises in Yiwu, of which more than 85000 were newly registered in 2022, with a growth rate of 48.9%.