Core Insights - The newly opened Global Digital Trade Center in Yiwu represents a shift towards technology-driven commerce, emphasizing brand and IP development alongside retail innovation [1][3] - The integration of AI in product design and marketing is becoming increasingly prevalent among merchants, helping them to better understand cultural preferences and market trends [3][4] Group 1: Technological Integration - The Global Digital Trade Center features advanced digital infrastructure, including a 10-gigabit optical network and cross-border data transmission channels, facilitating real-time communication for over 3,700 new merchants [3] - AI applications in the e-commerce sector include a "World Yiwu" trade model and various AI tools aimed at addressing design, marketing, and export challenges faced by merchants [3] Group 2: Brand Development - Among the 3,700 merchants in the Global Digital Trade Center, 57% possess their own brands or IP products, indicating a growing consensus on the importance of brand identity [3] - Companies are increasingly focusing on developing unique IPs to enhance their market presence, as seen in the case of LABUBU, which has seen increased sales in overseas markets [4] Group 3: Educational Toys and Innovation - The demand for educational toys is rising, with companies like Boran Education shifting from homogeneous products to those with core competitive advantages, focusing on children's education [6] - The integration of AI in product development is viewed as essential for improving efficiency and innovation within the industry [6] Group 4: Cultural and Craft Revival - Traditional crafts, such as wool felt, are being revitalized in modern contexts, with companies like Coco Nepal successfully merging ancient techniques with contemporary aesthetics [8] - The expansion of Coco Nepal from a small shop to multiple locations and factories highlights the potential for cultural crafts to thrive in global markets [8]