Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the decline of the "担担军" (Dandan Army), a group of fruit vendors who traditionally transported and sold fresh produce from Guangdong to Guangxi via slow trains, reflecting broader changes in transportation, market dynamics, and social structures in rural China [1][101][108]. Group 1: The "担担军" Phenomenon - The "担担军" used to consist of over a hundred members five years ago, but now only eight are actively participating in the fruit trade on the K9314 train [9][8]. - The group primarily consists of women who carry fruits like lychees and guavas, contributing to their families' livelihoods [28][83]. - The slow train service has been maintained since 2012, providing low-cost transportation for rural vendors, with K9314 being one of the 81 remaining slow trains in the country [29][30]. Group 2: Economic Impact and Changes - The article notes that the traditional method of selling fruits is being replaced by modern logistics and e-commerce, leading to a significant reduction in the number of "担担军" members [85][101]. - Many former vendors have shifted to using small trucks for bulk sales, indicating a transition in the fruit selling business model [86]. - The average daily earnings for a vendor like 罗燕芬 (Luo Yanfen) can reach around 200 yuan after expenses, highlighting the economic significance of this trade for local families [81][78]. Group 3: Cultural and Social Reflections - The decline of the "担担军" is seen as a reflection of changing lifestyles and the impact of urbanization and technology on traditional occupations [102][103]. - The article emphasizes the resilience and adaptability of the remaining vendors, who express a willingness to continue as long as they are physically able [109][110]. - The "担担军" serves as a cultural symbol of local heritage, with their gradual disappearance marking a significant shift in the socio-economic landscape of the region [104][106].

Core Insights - The article highlights the proactive measures taken by the Zhongshan government to support local businesses in navigating international trade challenges, particularly in light of recent tariff issues with the U.S. [1][2][3] Group 1: Government Support Initiatives - Zhongshan's government has revised management policies to allow more companies to participate in international trade exhibitions, addressing the historical export performance requirements that previously hindered new exporters [1][6] - The "Thousand Enterprises and Ten Thousand Factories" research initiative aims to gather feedback from businesses to improve service and support [3][10] - Various policies have been introduced to stimulate foreign trade and domestic consumption, including measures to facilitate customs clearance and provide training for businesses [9][10] Group 2: Company Responses and Strategies - Daisile Technology Group, a leader in pool equipment, is beginning to explore international markets after years of focusing on domestic sales, facing challenges in participating in international trade shows [5][6] - Wolai Technology, which derives 65% of its business from foreign trade, has received a surge of orders from U.S. clients following the reduction of tariffs, indicating a recovery in demand [2][3] - Tianmei Electric, another local company, is diversifying its market approach by testing domestic sales after traditionally focusing on exports, with significant portions of its sales coming from the U.S. and Europe [4][12] Group 3: Trade Performance and Market Outlook - Zhongshan's foreign trade showed resilience, with a reported 9.2% year-on-year increase in total trade volume for the first four months of the year, reaching 944.2 billion [9] - The local government is actively monitoring the performance of businesses and providing tailored support to ensure they can capitalize on favorable trade conditions [9][10] - Companies like Daisile and Wolai are optimistic about their ability to expand internationally, leveraging government support and their own innovations to enhance competitiveness in global markets [7][8][12]