Chinese Town Dominates Global Toothbrush Production

CHINA: A recent article published on China Daily’s website by Chen Meiling sheds light on the remarkable story of Hangji, a small town in China’s Jiangsu province that has become the world’s largest toothbrush production hub. This comprehensive report reveals how a modest local industry has grown to dominate the global market, adapting to changing consumer demands and embracing technological innovation.

A Legacy of Oral Care

According to the article, Hangji’s toothbrush industry dates back approximately 200 years to the Qing Dynasty. What began as a craft producing luxury items for the elite has evolved into a massive industry that now accounts for 80% of China’s toothbrush production and 35% of the world’s total output.

The town’s significance is aptly captured by an engraving in the local toothbrush museum, which boldly states: “Wherever humans reside, there are toothbrushes made in Hangji.”

Future of China’s clear aligner technology market

Economic Impact and Scale

The sheer scale of Hangji’s toothbrush industry is staggering. The town, spanning just 40 square kilometers, is home to over 2,000 toothbrush manufacturers and supporting enterprises. These businesses collectively produce more than 7.5 billion toothbrushes annually, which are exported to about 80 countries and regions.

The economic impact is substantial, with the annual output value of Hangji’s toothbrush industry reaching 13 billion yuan (approximately $1.8 billion).

Innovation in a Mature Market

Despite the toothbrush being a commonplace item with near-universal penetration in China, Hangji’s manufacturers have found ways to innovate and expand their market share. The article highlights how companies are developing high-end, environmentally friendly, and intelligent products to appeal to increasingly health-conscious and eco-aware consumers globally.

One example of this innovation comes from Yangzhou Sanfeng Brush Co Ltd. The company’s general manager, Li Yang, explained their approach to creating specialized products:

“Brush bristles with a diameter of only 0.1 millimeters can better care for the gums of expedition team members in polar low-temperature environments. Additionally, considering environmental factors, brush handles produced using polylactic acid materials can biodegrade within three months.”

From public to private: Evolution of China’s dental market

Technological Advancements and Automation

The article also describes how Hangji’s manufacturers are embracing automation and digital technologies to increase efficiency and maintain their competitive edge. Jiangsu Sanxiao Group Co Ltd, for instance, has invested heavily in robotics and intelligent systems.

Han Xiaotian, the group’s executive chairman, boasted of their new facility’s capabilities:

“It can produce 2 million toothbrushes per day, increasing production efficiency by 50 percent, inventory turnover by 100 percent and shortening delivery cycles by 50 percent.”

A Complete Industry Ecosystem

One of Hangji’s key strengths is its comprehensive industry chain. The town has developed a robust ecosystem that includes logistics companies, trading centers, and e-commerce facilities. This integrated approach has attracted both domestic and international companies to set up operations in Hangji.

Lan Jin, general manager of LMZ (Jiangsu) Industrial Co Ltd, explained the benefits of operating in Hangji:

“The Yangtze River Delta where Hangji is located is a huge market. Our main customers, domestic large hotels such as Huazhu and Atour, all have their headquarters in Shanghai.”

Global Reach and Future Prospects

The article emphasizes Hangji’s significant role in the global toothbrush market, with its products reaching over 80 countries and accounting for 90% of China’s total toothbrush exports.

Despite current economic challenges, industry representatives remain optimistic. Jia Hui, marketing director of Yangzhou Minsheng Brush Daily Chemical Co Ltd, expressed confidence in the future:

“Over the past year, foreign distributors have also felt the pressure of an economic downturn… Nevertheless, we remain confident in the future of this market.”

As Hangji continues to adapt to changing market conditions and consumer preferences, it seems poised to maintain its position as the world’s toothbrush capital for the foreseeable future.