Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the evolution of Yiwu merchants in response to global economic fluctuations, international trade dynamics, and the impact of the internet, highlighting their ambition to "trade globally" despite changing market conditions [1][2]. Group 1: Traditional Business Models - Traditional Yiwu merchants continue to rely on established business practices, maintaining close relationships with long-term clients and focusing on in-store sales [2][13]. - Merchants like Chen Lixiu and Qiu Xiaonan emphasize the importance of personal customer service and the effectiveness of the "sitting merchant" model, which involves direct interaction with customers in physical stores [15][16]. - The traditional model has shown a consistent customer engagement rate, with new customer inquiries averaging around 10 per day and a conversion rate of 20%-30% [15]. Group 2: New Business Strategies - Newer Yiwu merchants are adopting innovative approaches by leveraging social media platforms like Douyin and Xiaohongshu to attract customers, resulting in a significant increase in foreign trade share from zero to 50% in just two years [2][10][12]. - The shift towards online sales allows for a broader product range and lower minimum order quantities, making it easier to cater to diverse customer needs [11][12]. - The use of competitive pricing strategies has been effective, with some products being offered at significantly lower prices than competitors, enhancing customer purchasing power [7][12]. Group 3: Market Dynamics and Opportunities - The article highlights the historical context of Yiwu's trade environment, noting that past profit margins were much higher due to a lack of competition and high demand [5][6]. - Current market conditions have led to a more competitive landscape, prompting merchants to adapt by diversifying their business models and focusing on retail rather than wholesale [2][6]. - The potential for growth in the foreign trade market is emphasized, with overseas customers showing less price sensitivity compared to domestic clients, indicating a lucrative opportunity for Yiwu merchants [12].