China is the world’s largest jewelry manufacturing base and one of the largest jewelry exporters. Export-oriented factories are mainly concentrated in Guangdong (Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Dongguan), Zhejiang (Yiwu, Zhuji), and Fujian (Putian), supplying fashion jewelry, stainless steel jewelry, silver jewelry, gold jewelry, pearls, and accessories to buyers worldwide.
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Current export situation
According to the China Gems & Jade Exchange Association’s 2025 industry report:
- China’s jewelry industry’s total imports and exports reached approximately US$167.9 billion in 2025, an increase of 8.5% year over year.
- Exports totaled approximately US$50.6 billion, showing strong growth.
- Cross-border e-commerce continued to expand, with jewelry becoming one of the leading export categories through online channels.
Main export markets
Chinese jewelry factories primarily export to:
- United States
- Canada
- Germany
- United Kingdom
- France
- Italy
- Australia
- Japan
- South Korea
- Middle East (especially UAE and Saudi Arabia)
- Southeast Asia (Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand)
Many factories also supply Amazon, Walmart, TikTok Shop, Etsy, and independent e-commerce brands through OEM and ODM manufacturing.
Main exported products
Export demand varies by region:
| Product | Main Markets |
|---|---|
| Stainless steel jewelry | North America, Europe |
| 925 sterling silver jewelry | Europe, North America |
| Fashion jewelry | Europe, United States, South America |
| Gold jewelry | Middle East, Southeast Asia |
| Pearl jewelry | Japan, Europe, United States |
| Cubic zirconia jewelry | Worldwide |
| Body jewelry | United States, Europe |
Export trends
Several trends are shaping Chinese jewelry exports:
- Cross-border e-commerce has become a major sales channel, allowing many factories to work directly with overseas brands and retailers rather than only through importers.
- Buyers increasingly request small-batch OEM/ODM, custom logos, and rapid product development.
- Demand is growing for 316L stainless steel, waterproof jewelry, PVD gold plating, and environmentally compliant materials.
- Factories are investing more in automation, quality control, and international certifications to meet overseas customer requirements.
Challenges
Chinese jewelry exporters also face several challenges:
- Higher tariffs and trade policy uncertainty in some markets, particularly the U.S., prompting some companies to diversify toward Europe, ASEAN, Latin America, and the Middle East.
- Rising labor and raw material costs, especially for precious metals.
- Increasing customer requirements for environmental compliance, product traceability, and social responsibility.
- Stronger competition from manufacturers in countries such as India, Vietnam, and Thailand for certain product categories.
Outlook
Despite global economic and trade uncertainties, China’s jewelry export industry remains competitive because of its complete supply chain, manufacturing capacity, design capabilities, and efficient logistics. Industry data indicates that exports continue to account for a substantial share of production, while manufacturers are increasingly shifting toward higher-value products, customized production, and diversified export markets.
