In recent years, the Chinese hardware industry has experienced remarkable growth, evolving into a global leader in both manufacturing and consumption. According to the China National Hardware Association, after three decades of rapid development, China has become the world’s largest tool production center and consumer market. Not only does it meet domestic demand, but its hand tools and electric tools are also widely exported across the globe. Shi Lanlan, executive vice president of the China Tool Association, emphasized that the industry is currently at a crucial stage for enhancing core competitiveness. Leading companies are investing heavily in technology upgrades and transformation, aiming for sustainable, low-carbon, and eco-friendly development.
Today, 70% of the world's tools are produced by enterprises in China, the U.S., and Germany, with China playing a key role in the global supply chain. Customs data shows that during the 11th Five-Year Plan period, China's tool exports grew at an annual rate exceeding 20%. In 2010, the total value of tool exports surpassed $8 billion, and in the first half of this year alone, exports reached $4.904 billion, reflecting a 25.4% year-on-year increase. Over 160 countries now use Chinese-made tools, highlighting the country’s growing influence.
Looking ahead, the domestic tool industry aims to make significant progress in product innovation, standardization, and market expansion over the next five years. Specific goals include achieving steady growth, targeting $10 billion in exports by 2015, with 10–15% from own-brand products. The industry also plans to consolidate leading enterprises through optimized shareholding structures, eliminate high-pollution and energy-intensive firms, and introduce advanced management systems. Companies will focus on R&D investment, aiming for at least 5% of sales revenue to be allocated to innovation, with half of new patents applied practically.
Large enterprises will be encouraged to establish high-level laboratories with advanced testing equipment for quality control. Meanwhile, efforts will be made to boost the international visibility of Chinese brands, aiming to penetrate high-end foreign markets and increase the presence of premium domestic products.
Shi Lanlan stressed the importance of brand building, urging companies to invest in technology and enhance their competitive edge. The goal is to create a group of enterprises with annual output exceeding 1 billion yuan and cultivate 3–5 globally recognized tool brands within the next 5–10 years.
Zhang Dongli, chairman of the China Hardware Products Association, added that during the 12th Five-Year Plan, the industry must accelerate its transformation and focus on quality and innovation. Cooperation among industry players is essential to avoid unhealthy competition and promote global development.
Several prominent companies, such as Shandong Wendeng Power Tools Group and Zhejiang Ningbo Great Wall Precision Industry Co., Ltd., have already taken steps toward future growth. Yu Zhijiang of Wendeng emphasized the rising demand for high-end, branded tools and the need to improve efficiency and quality through production line upgrades. The company has launched the Maipo brand domestically and invested 100 million yuan in brand development.
Great Wall Precision, established in 1984, has focused on high-quality, high-tech production, emphasizing brand awareness and protection. Through continuous innovation, the company aims to achieve global recognition and align with the long-term vision of the tool industry. Building a world-class brand requires more than just advertising—it demands strong support in quality, technology, intellectual property, and corporate culture.
Jiangyin Suofei Electronic Technology Co.,Ltd. , https://www.suofeiscales.com