Guide to Yiwu International Trade City

How is the market organised?

The market is split into several districts, each with floors and aisles dedicated to product categories such as toys, jewellery, hardware, stationery and household goods. Thousands of shops display samples; most stock is held in factories or warehouses.

What is sold there?

Mainly small commodities: accessories, gifts, festive decorations, kitchenware, stationery, bags, small tools, packaging and much more, usually sold by carton.

How does it differ from buying online?

You can see and touch samples, compare many shops in one aisle and negotiate face to face. In return you need a plan, time and someone to receive and consolidate goods after ordering.

Making the most of it

• Decide your categories before visiting.
• Photograph each shop card and booth number with the product.
• Ask for the minimum order and production time before the price.
• Confirm whether the price is per piece, dozen or carton.

What you usually will not find

Highly customised products or very large volumes are handled directly by factories. A market shop may be a factory outlet or a trader sourcing from several factories, which affects price and flexibility.