Guanyun’s Lingerie Industry Faces Challenges Amid U.S. Trade Policy Shifts
Tariff changes and e-commerce restrictions could reshape China’s "Victoria's Secret Town."
In Guanyun County, China, the lingerie industry, housed within the sprawling WeMet Industrial Park, has thrived under U.S. tariff exemptions and booming e-commerce. However, proposed changes to the "de minimis" rule in the U.S. and similar measures in other regions could threaten this growth.
The industry employs over 100,000 people, with many relying on exports to the U.S. for income. Local authorities have invested heavily in infrastructure and training to support the sector. Factory owners like Lei Congrui are exploring alternative markets and strategies, including shipping innovations and targeting South America, the Middle East, and Central Asia, to mitigate the anticipated setbacks.
Despite these challenges, residents of Guanyun emphasize the benefits of the industry, which has significantly improved local living standards. The future of this sector will likely shape the economic trajectory of the region and its ability to adapt to shifting global trade dynamics.
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The industry employs over 100,000 people, with many relying on exports to the U.S. for income. Local authorities have invested heavily in infrastructure and training to support the sector. Factory owners like Lei Congrui are exploring alternative markets and strategies, including shipping innovations and targeting South America, the Middle East, and Central Asia, to mitigate the anticipated setbacks.
Despite these challenges, residents of Guanyun emphasize the benefits of the industry, which has significantly improved local living standards. The future of this sector will likely shape the economic trajectory of the region and its ability to adapt to shifting global trade dynamics.
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