从制造到“智造” 小牙刷“刷”新传统书写中国企业全球故事

Core Insights - The article highlights that Hangji Town in Yangzhou, Jiangsu Province, is the world's largest toothbrush production base, producing 7.5 billion toothbrushes annually and exporting over 1.2 billion yuan worth of toothbrushes in the first seven months of this year, marking a 5% year-on-year increase [1][11]. Industry Overview - Hangji Town has a rich history in toothbrush manufacturing, dating back to the Qing Dynasty, and has evolved from manual production to smart manufacturing, showcasing China's global story in this sector [3][11]. - The toothbrush production line in Hangji is highly automated, featuring over 400 smart devices that enable the production of more than 80,000 toothbrushes per hour [5][7]. Technological Advancements - The upgrade of production lines is driven by the need for increased efficiency and compliance with international standards regarding production processes and packaging [9]. - Recent innovations include patented technologies that have significantly increased the number of bristles per toothbrush, enhancing manufacturing capabilities and leading to a 20% annual growth in foreign trade orders [9][11]. Market Expansion - The toothbrush industry in Hangji is undergoing a transformation, with 80% of enterprises adopting smart manufacturing, resulting in a twofold increase in production efficiency [11]. - The product range has expanded beyond basic toothbrushes to include high-end oral care products, penetrating over 80 countries globally [11][12]. Environmental Considerations - The industry is increasingly focusing on sustainability, with products made from biodegradable materials such as bamboo, straw, and corn starch to reduce plastic waste [15][18]. - Companies are adapting to stringent environmental standards in markets like the EU and the US, with some achieving nearly 100% degradation rates for their products [18]. Response to Trade Challenges - The complex global trade environment has prompted companies to seek new markets, especially after the US market share dropped from 40% to 20% due to increased tariffs [19][21]. - Companies are diversifying their market focus towards emerging countries and enhancing domestic sales, with the domestic market share rising from 15% to 20% [25][27].