Top Cities for Sourcing in China & China’s Top Factory Cities

Estimated reading time: 23 minutes

Are you interested in sourcing from China? But as we all know, there are many cities for sourcing in China. The choice of cities and products is dizzying. How to choose cities for sourcing in China?

Don’t worry, in this article you can get all the cities’ information suitable for sourcing in China. And I will list for you which factory cities in China are available for you to source.

Sourcing From Guangdong Province

Guangdong Province is located in the southeast of China.

It is an economically important region. I think even if you don’t know about Guangdong Province, you must have heard of the Canton Fair, right? As an international trade center, Guangdong Province is the first choice for many people for sourcing in China. It borders the South China Sea, has an extensive coastline, and has cultivated many ports critical to maritime logistics.

Later I will also provide you with what ports are in Guangdong Province.

Guangdong Province also serves as the starting point of the Maritime Silk Road and plays a key role in China’s “One Belt, One Road” initiative. The province has a diversified and advanced economy whose strengths lie in manufacturing, technology and services. It is home to the Pearl River Delta, one of the most economically dynamic regions in the world. Famous cities such as Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Foshan, Zhongshan and other cities are all here.

What are the ports in Guangdong Province?

When you are considering cities for sourcing in China. Find out in advance what ports the city has and where they are located. This makes it easier to ship your product directly from China.

a) Port of Guangzhou: This is one of the largest ports in China. Located in the Pearl River Delta. It is the main hub for shipping containers from Guangdong.

b) Port of Shenzhen: This port includes several terminals including Yantian, Shekou and Chiwan. It is also one of the busiest container ports in the world.

c) Port of Zhuhai: Located in the southern part of the Pearl River Delta. General transportation of bulk cargo and containers.

So how many cities in Guangdong Province are suitable for sourcing? For the answer to this question, I list the following four cities for you.

1. Wholesale Electronic Products from Shenzhen

Have you ever heard of “Chinese Silicon Valley”? Yes, this city is Shenzhen.

Shenzhen has risen to become the predominant epicenter of high-tech design and manufacturing in the world. Variously called the “world’s factory,” “the new Silicon Valley,” and the “maker’s dream city,” Shenzhen has a complete ecosystem that contains everything needed for all stages of electronics production all in one place. This has turned the city into a staging ground for large high-tech companies, rising startups, and independent innovators from all over the world looking to get their stuff made as efficiently as possible. Tech giants like Huawei, ZTE, and Tencent all got their starts here, and many more companies seem to be on the way up.

From: Forbes.com

If you are thinking about cities for wholesale electronic products in China. Believe me, Shenzhen is your best choice.

The Electronics Markets in Shenzhen,

• Huaqiangbei Market: This is probably one of the most famous electronic markets in the world. Huaqiangbei is an area filled with many shopping malls and buildings specializing in various electronic products. It is the go-to place for sourcing components, gadgets, mobile phones, computer accessories and more. The SEG Electronics Market located in this area is especially famous.
• Yuanwang Digital Mall: This mall focuses on the retail and wholesale of mobile phones and accessories. Located at No. 1002, Huaqiang North Road, Futian District, Guangzhou, China. And the mall is open all week from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
• Futian Market: Although Futian Market is not as big and well-known as Huaqiangbei. But Futian Market also has many electronic products for you to choose from. And there are fewer people in this market than in other markets. You won’t be too crowded to find the product you’re looking for.

2. Wholesale Products from Guangzhou

Guangzhou is the capital city of Guangdong Province. The city’s extensive manufacturing base is an important contributor to its wholesale market. Including electronics, clothing and consumer goods and other industries.

Guangzhou’s electronics market is particularly noteworthy, known for its wide range of products. Including mobile phones, computer accessories and various electronic components. These products are not only diverse in variety, but also meet a wide range of needs in quality and pricing from low-end to high-end, making Guangzhou an ideal sourcing location for global buyers.

Guangzhou has also made achievements in the fields of fashion and textiles. The city offers a wide range of products from high-end fashion to affordable clothing. The wholesale market here is filled with clothing, leather goods and accessories. A wide range of fabrics are also available, including silks, cotton and synthetics.

This is a very suitable city for sourcing products.

The Markets in Guangzhou,

• Guangzhou Electronics City: This is the main shopping destination for electronic products. You can buy computer accessories, mobile phones and accessories here.
• Baima Clothing Wholesale Market: It is one of the largest clothing markets in China. There are many clothing styles.
• Shisanhang Clothing Wholesale Market: This is another popular wholesale clothing market in Guangzhou. Mainly focused on women’s fashion.
• Wanling International Plaza: This is a large market for toys, gifts and various small commodities.
• Haiyin Cloth Market: A market specializing in fabrics and textiles.
• Liwan Plaza Jewelry Market: Mainly wholesale and retail jewelry. Products here include jade, pearls and gold.
• Nanfang Building International Electronics Market: Provides a variety of electronic components and consumer electronics products.
• Qingping Market: You can buy traditional Chinese medicine, herbal medicine and related products here.
• Yide Road Wholesale Market: Mainly selling dried seafood, tea and traditional Chinese products.

3. Buy communication equipment from Dongguan

Dongguan is home to numerous factories and suppliers specializing in the production of various communications equipment. Including smartphones, tablets and wireless communication modules. These manufacturers are known for their advanced technology, efficient production processes, and ability to produce high-quality products at competitive prices.

Some famous mobile phone brands such as vivo and oppo. These companies will choose manufacturers in Dongguan to produce mobile phone accessories for them, such as chargers.

The Communication Equipment Markets in Dongguan,

• Dongguan Electronic Information Industrial Park: This is more like an industrial park than a traditional market. But it brings together many manufacturers and suppliers of communication equipment. This is a great place to source wholesale and custom products directly from Chinese manufacturers.
• Nancheng District: The commercial center of Dongguan. A variety of electronics stores and retail outlets are available here, including stores specializing in communications equipment.

4. Importing ceramic tiles and furniture from Foshan

Foshan’s ceramic industry is one of the largest industries in China. A wide range of products from floor and wall tiles to decorative and artistic ceramics are available here. Foshan’s ceramic tiles are characterized by high durability, diverse designs and beautiful appearance. These advantages are believed to meet the needs of your target market.

In addition to ceramics, Foshan also has many furniture manufacturers. They are able to offer a diverse range of products including traditional and contemporary designs. At the same time, Foshan has many furniture markets. I will list them for you below.

The Ceramic Tiles Markets in Foshan,

• China Ceramic City: One of the most famous markets for high-quality ceramic tiles in China. This is a large complex where numerous ceramic manufacturers display their latest products.
• Foshan International Ceramics Exhibition Center: Another concentration of ceramic tiles, offering a wide range of products from various manufacturers.
• Shiwan Tile Market: Located in Shiwan area. Many types of ceramic tiles are produced here. You can shop here for a variety of tiles at various price points.

The Furniture Markets in Foshan,

• Lecong International Furniture Exhibition Center: one of the largest furniture markets in the world. You can find furniture in various styles from modern to traditional Chinese. Yes, this famous market is in Foshan.
• Shunlian Furniture City: Another major furniture market in Foshan. Mainly offers a wide selection of home and office furniture.

Sourcing From Zhejiang Province

Zhejiang Province is located on the east coast of China. There is a strong manufacturing industry here.

The province has a rich cultural history and picturesque landscapes, including the West Lake in its capital city of Hangzhou. Zhejiang’s economy is diversified, and its advantageous areas include the textile, machinery, and chemical industries. Especially the manufacturing of small commodities.

Do you know about Yiwu City, Zhejiang Province? Yiwu City has the largest small commodity wholesale market in the world.

In addition, Zhejiang is a leader in e-commerce and digital economy in China. The headquarters of large companies such as Alibaba Group are in Hangzhou. The province has a well-developed transportation infrastructure. Including ports, high-speed rail and airports.

What are the ports in Zhejiang Province?

a) Port of Ningbo-Zhoushan: This port is the merged entity of Ningbo Port and Zhoushan Port. It is one of the busiest ports in the world in terms of cargo and container throughput. Particularly known for its deepwater capabilities, it handles a wide range of cargoes, including breakbulk and containerized cargo.

b) Wenzhou Port: located in southern Zhejiang. Wenzhou Port is an important regional port that mainly handles bulk and general cargo.

c) Taizhou Port: This port mainly handles bulk cargo, chemicals and general cargo. It is an important port for industry and manufacturing in the region.

d) Jiaxing Port: Although not as big as Ningbo-Zhoushan. But Jiaxing Port plays a key role in regional logistics, especially for agricultural and industrial products.

1. Buy Small Commodities from Yiwu

In Yiwu, it is one of the largest wholesale centers in the world. You can find a variety of small items here.

Yiwu International Trade City is located in Yiwu City. Maybe you haven’t bought products in it, but I believe you must know it!

The Small Commodities Market in Yiwu,

• Yiwu International Trade City: Also known as Yiwu Market. This is the largest small commodity market in the world. It covers a vast area with thousands of stalls. This market is a busy trading hub offering an amazing range of products, from toys, fashion accessories and jewelry to hardware, stationery and homewares.
• District 1: Focus on artificial flowers, toys and jewelry.
• District 2: Specializes in selling bags, hardware tools, electrical equipment and household items.
• District 3: Mainly wholesale stationery, sporting goods, cosmetics, glasses and zippers.
• District 4: Offers a variety of socks, daily necessities, gloves, hats and other knitted items.
• District 5: Specializes in bedding, textiles and auto accessories.

2. Buy Clothes Directly from Hangzhou

Hangzhou is the capital city of Zhejiang Province. It is also an important player in the Chinese textile and apparel industry. The city is famous for its silk production and is an ideal place to source high-quality silk clothing.

However, Hangzhou’s clothing raw materials are not limited to silk. It covers a variety of clothing from traditional Chinese clothing to modern fashion. The city is home to numerous manufacturers and designers who keep up with global fashion trends. Offering clothing in a variety of styles, from high-end luxury brands to more affordable fast-fashion options.

The Clothing Markets in Hangzhou,

• Hangzhou Sijiqing Clothing Market: This is one of the largest clothing markets in China. It offers a wide range of clothing. From women’s clothing and men’s clothing to children’s clothing and ethnic wear.
• Hangzhou China Silk City: Famous for its silk products. This market is the place to buy high-quality silk fabrics, clothing, scarves and accessories. It reflects Hangzhou’s historical importance in silk production.
• Hefang Street: This is not a traditional clothing market. Hefang Street is a famous historical and cultural district in Hangzhou. A variety of traditional Chinese clothing, including cheongsams, as well as modern fashions are available here.
• Hangzhou Tower Shopping Center: A modern shopping mall offering a mixed selection of domestic and foreign brands. Belongs to the higher-end market.

3. Wholesale Plastic Products from Ningbo

Yuyao in Ningbo is known as “The Plastic City of China“. In Ningbo, Yuyao there are thousands of plastic manufacturers. Produces a wide range of plastic products including household products, packaging materials and industrial components.

The Plastic Products Markets in Ningbo,

Although Ningbo does not have a market as large as Yiwu. But there are some industrial areas and markets where plastic products can be sourced. Here are some of the markets where you can find and wholesale plastic products:

• Ningbo Plastic Industrial Zone: This is more of an industrial zone than a traditional market, but it is home to many manufacturers specializing in various types of plastic products. You can buy bulk products directly from manufacturers in this area.
• Ningbo International Convention and Exhibition Center: This is not a permanent market. But the venue frequently hosts trade shows and expos, including those focused on plastic and rubber products. If you have the chance, you can also discover new business opportunities here. This is great for those who are looking for a city for sourcing in China in the long term. This city is a good choice.

Sourcing From Shanghai

Shanghai is a global financial center and a major commercial and trade center. It is located at the entrance of the Yangtze River Delta, a gateway connecting China and the rest of the world.

The city’s port is one of the busiest in the world and plays a key role in international shipping and logistics. Shanghai’s economy is diversified, covering a wide range of fields such as finance, technology, manufacturing and international trade. This economic diversity, coupled with its advanced infrastructure and international culture, attracts businesses and investors from around the world, making it one of the cities suitable for sourcing from China.

What are the ports in Shanghai?

a) Yangshan Deep Water Port: Located in the Yangshan Island Group in Hangzhou Bay, it is connected to the mainland through the East China Sea Bridge. Yangshan Port specializes in handling large container ships and is an important part of the Shanghai Free Trade Zone.

b) Waigaoqiao Port Area: Located in Pudong New Area, it mainly handles container transportation. It is one of the busiest container ports in the world.

c) Wusongkou Port Area: Located at the mouth of the Yangtze River, it mainly handles bulk cargo and general cargo. It is also the site of Shanghai Wusongkou International Cruise Terminal.

d) Huangpu River Port Area: Mainly used for shipping in mainland China. Handles a variety of cargo including general, bulk and containerized cargo.

The Markets in Shanghai,

As a global metropolis, Shanghai has a diverse market that caters to different tastes and needs. This city offers a diverse shopping experience.

• Asia Pacific Plaza Shopping Market: located in Pudong New Area. It is one of the largest underground markets in Shanghai and stocks a variety of goods, including clothing, accessories, and electronic products.
• South Bund Fabric Market: Famous for its tailor shops and fabric stores. Here you can make custom suits, dresses and traditional Chinese clothing.
• Xing Guang Photographic Equipment Market: This is the largest photographic equipment market in Shanghai. Offering a wide range of cameras, lenses and accessories.
• Hongqiao Pearl Market: A great place to find pearls and jewelry. You can also find traditional Chinese silk and tea here.
• Qipu Road Clothing Market: Famous for wholesale clothing.

Sourcing From Jiangsu Province

Jiangsu Province is located on the east coast of China and is one of the important economic powerhouses. Has strong manufacturing and technology industries.

As one of the richest provinces in China, Jiangsu has a highly developed economy. There is a strong industrial focus in particular on the electronics, textiles and automotive industries. The province is home to several major industrial cities, such as Nanjing, Suzhou and Wuxi, each with its own areas of expertise.

Jiangsu is strategically located along the Yangtze River Delta. If you choose this city for sourcing in China, it will be much more convenient in the subsequent product transportation process. The province also focuses on product research and development, thanks to its numerous universities and research institutions. These institutions increase the province’s capacity for innovation and technological advancement.

What are the ports in Jiangsu Province?

a) Port of Lianyungang: Located at the northern end of Jiangsu, it is one of the major ports in China. It is also an important link in the New Eurasian Land Bridge. Handles all types of cargo, including breakbulk and containerized cargo.

b) Port of Nanjing: Located on the Yangtze River, it is the largest inland port in China. The port specializes in handling bulk cargo such as minerals, coal and steel. Also handles small quantities of container shipping.

c) Port of Suzhou: Located in Suzhou, this port focuses on containers and bulk cargo. It is very important to the economic development of Suzhou Industrial Park.

1. Import Glasses from Danyang

Danyang is known as the “Chinese Glasses City“. The city’s production of optical lenses and eyeglass frames is Danyang’s main source of income.

This city is home to numerous professional glass manufacturing factories and companies. Committed to designing and manufacturing a wide range of eyewear products. These products include prescription lenses, sunglasses, reading glasses, and a variety of frames made from different materials.

Danyang due to its high-quality products, innovative designs and advanced manufacturing technology. If you don’t know which city to choose for sourcing glasses in China, Danyang can be your first choice destination.

The Glasses Markets in Danyang,

• Danyang Glasses Town: This is the main area where many manufacturers and traders of glasses and optical products are concentrated. It is a center for domestic and foreign buyers looking for wholesale eyewear products.
• Danyang International Optical Expo Center: This is the main place for trade and exhibitions of eyewear products. Various trade shows and expos have been held. Eyewear manufacturers showcase their latest designs and eyewear innovations here.

2. Import Products from Suzhou

Suzhou is one of the most important cities in Chinese history and culture. The traditional silk production and booming modern industry here make this city popular with many people who want to source in China.

Suzhou has a mix of traditional industries such as silk and textile manufacturing, as well as modern fields such as electronics, pharmaceuticals and machinery. Can meet your purchasing needs for a variety of products.

Suzhou’s silk history dates back thousands of years. The silks in this city are popular in world markets for their high quality, exquisite craftsmanship and elegant design features.

Besides silk, Suzhou also has achievements in the fields of electronics and technology. The city has numerous high-tech parks and industrial areas where advanced manufacturing of electronics, precision instruments and IT products is carried out.

The Silk Markets in Suzhou,

• Suzhou Silk Market: This is a famous market area featuring silk products. You can find a variety of silk items here including clothing, scarves, bedding and accessories. The market offers traditional and modern silk designs.
• Suzhou No. 1 Silk Factory: This is both a factory and a showroom where you can see the silk-making process and buy authentic silk products. This is also a great place to learn about the history and process of silk production in Suzhou.

The Other Markets in Suzhou,

• Arts and Crafts City: This market specializes in selling traditional Chinese crafts. You can find items such as embroidery, fans, traditional Chinese paintings and wood carvings here.
• Suzhou Industrial Park Shopping Areas: Modern and upscale industrial park with shopping malls and boutiques. A mix of international and local brands is available here. Includes fashion, electronics and lifestyle products.

3. Import High-tech Products from Wuxi

Wuxi focuses on areas such as new energy, biotechnology and advanced manufacturing technology. There are a large number of industrial parks in this city. You can source many kinds of high-tech products from Wuxi.

The High-tech Products Market in Wuxi,

• Wuxi National High-tech Industrial Development District: This area is the center of Wuxi’s high-tech industry, with many companies specializing in electronics, information technology, biotechnology and new energy located here.

4. Buy Products from Nanjing

Nanjing is the capital of Jiangsu Province. The city is a major education, research and technology center in eastern China. The major industries in Nanjing include electronics, automobile manufacturing and petrochemicals.

The Markets in Nanjing,

• Confucius Temple Market: Located in the Confucius Temple area, it is famous for traditional Chinese handicrafts, souvenirs, and artworks. This is a great place to experience local culture and buy unique items.
• Xinjiekou: This is the central shopping district in Nanjing, Xinjiekou is home to a variety of shopping malls, department stores and boutiques offering everything from high-end brands to affordable local products.
• Zhongyangmen Fabric Market: A large market specializing in a variety of fabrics, where you can also find tailoring services offering custom-made clothing.

Sourcing From Fujian Province

Fujian Province is located in the southeastern coastal area of China. This province has very beautiful landscapes.

Fujian Province specializes in the production of traditional handicraft products such as lacquerware and papermaking. If you have the opportunity to visit Fujian Province, you can also see its unique Fujian Tulou – the round dwellings of the Hakka community. The province is also an important supplier of tea to China. The area mainly produces oolong tea and white tea. You can source tea from this China city.

What are the ports in Fujian Province?

a) Port of Xiamen: One of the major ports in China, with a large container terminal. Mainly has more trade relations with Taiwan and Southeast Asian countries.

b) Port of Fuzhou: A port located in the provincial capital. It is an important regional transportation center that handles a variety of cargo including containers, breakbulk and general cargo.

c) Port of Quanzhou: Quanzhou Port handles container, general and bulk cargo.

d) Port of Mawei: It is also located in Fuzhou. Mawei Port is an important shipbuilding and industrial port that also handles various types of cargo.

e) Port of Meizhou Bay: A deep water port. Mainly handles bulk cargo. Especially coal, oil and construction materials.

1. Wholesale Shoes from Putian

Putian has many factories specializing in the production of various types of shoes. Whether sneakers, casual shoes or dress shoes. You can source them all in this city. The most important thing is that shoes in Putian can give you very low prices while ensuring quality. It’s hard not to be tempted by this.

The Shoes Markets in Putian,

• Putian Shoe Urban Wholesale Market: Located in Chengxiang District, Putian City. It is huge in scale and has a wide variety of products.
• Seoul Shoe Wholesale Market: Located in Hanjiang District, Putian City, with the theme of Hanfu shoes, the product design is novel and unique, and is loved by young people.
• Putian Leather City: Located in Chengxiang District, Putian City, it specializes in various types of leather shoes, bags and other products.
• Shoe Capital International Trade City: located in Licheng District, Putian City. It is a large wholesale shoe market with many suppliers and brand stores.

2. Buy Teas from Fuzhou

Fuzhou is the capital of Fujian Province. Popular for its rich tea culture and production. Especially their jasmine tea. The city also offers some markets and teahouses where you can explore and buy a variety of teas.

The Teas Markets in Fuzhou,

• Three Lanes and Seven Alleys: This is not just a tourist attraction. It is also a place where you can find traditional teahouses and shops selling a variety of Chinese teas. You can find jasmine tea, a specialty of Fuzhou.
• Daming Road Tea Street: There are many tea merchants on this street. This is a great place to experience tea culture and find high-quality tea products.

Sourcing From Hong Kong

Hong Kong is located in southeastern China and is one of the Chinese special administrative regions. It is also a globally recognized financial and business center. This is an ideal city to source products from China.

As a free port, most goods in Hong Kong do not require tariffs or value-added tax. This policy reduces the cost of importing products from Hong Kong. In addition to this, Hong Kong has one of the world’s busiest container ports, a major international airport and efficient road and rail connections to mainland China. Even if you choose other cities for sourcing in China. Convenient transportation can help you consolidate these goods easily.

What are the ports in Hong Kong?

a) Victoria Harbor: serves as one of the busiest and most efficient natural ports in the world. Victoria Harbor is located between Hong Kong Island and Kowloon. It is a key port for cargo and passenger ferries.

b) Kwai Tsing Container Terminals: These terminals are the main container handling facilities in Hong Kong and are located in the New Territories. They handle the majority of containerized cargo traffic in Hong Kong.

The Markets in Hong Kong,

• Temple Street Night Market: This market is located in Kowloon. This busy night market sells a variety of trinkets, electronics, clothes and traditional Chinese medicines. It’s also a great place to enjoy street food and live entertainment.
• Ladies Market: Located in Mong Kok, it is famous for women’s clothing, accessories, cosmetics and souvenirs. But you’ll also find a variety of other items.

Read More,

• Shipping from China to the US: Guide for Chinese Amazon Best Sellers
• China Trade 2020: Top 13 Industrial Clusters Cities and China Factory Distribution in East of China
• Importing Clothing and Textiles from China
• Best Items to Flip on Alibaba: What to Buy from Alibaba
• Find China Factory: Top 10 Industrial Clusters Cities and Wholesale Markets in South of China

Final Thoughts

In fact, there are many suitable cities for sourcing in China. Relying on the manufacturing capabilities of these cities, China is also known as the “world’s factory.” Of course, you must understand in advance that sourcing products from China is not an easy task. If you have sourcing needs, you can also contact us. Owlsourcing can provide you with the services of sourcing and shipping products.