The sports equipment industry in Tongzhou district, Nantong, Jiangsu province is experiencing a resurgence, driven by its participation in relevant trade exhibitions.

Last year, Tongzhou's sports equipment exports were predicted to reach 250 million yuan ($34.91 million), a growth of 23.7 percent compared to pre-pandemic levels.

Nantong Tengtai Sporting Fittness Co Ltd, established in 2010, specializes in producing and selling fitness equipment primarily in Europe and Canada. The company's export figures soared from over 50 million yuan in 2022 to more than 60 million yuan last year.

Zhang Jian, the company's general manager, said that trade exhibitions can help Tengtai connect with potential clients and explore new markets.

During last year's Canton Fair, the company not only expanded its customer base, but also secured deals amounting to $50,000. At a German exhibition, over 10 potential clients also showed interest in their products, with negotiations ongoing.

"We anticipate a further 20 percent growth in sales this year," Zhang added.

Similarly, Nantong Jinruite Sports Equipment Co Ltd in Tongzhou has capitalized on trade exhibitions to attract international clients. Among them is Lululemon, which has signed an annual contract worth about 4 million yuan with the company.

According to Jinruite's deputy general manager, 70 to 80 percent of the company's business stems from trade exhibitions. In its busiest year, the company participated in nine different country-specific exhibitions.

With the help of such exhibitions, the company's exports value surged from $10 million in 2022 to over $12 million last year.

A booth of Tongzhou's sports equipment firm at an exhibition. [Photo/WeChat account: wxtzfb]