Silk flowers in Weifang's small town blossom into global success

Jingzhi town, located in Anqiu, Weifang, has long been known for its baijiu (liquor distilled from fermented sorghum) production. In recent years, however, it has transformed into a global hub for handcrafted silk flowers. What began as a humble craft has grown into a thriving industry, with silk flowers now exported to over 20 countries and regions worldwide.

The roots of this industry date back to the 1970s, when a few local artisans began making delicate silk flowers by hand. Today, 81 companies in the town produce more than 50 million flowers annually across 100 different product categories, including bouquets, wreaths, and festive decorations. With total revenue exceeding 300 million yuan (about $42.2 million), silk flowers have become a cornerstone of the local economy.

Workers at a silk flower workshop in Jingzhi town, Weifang, skillfully assemble handcrafted flower decorations, a key product in the town's flourishing export industry. [Photo/Dazhong News]

At the heart of this success is a commitment to innovation and quality. Leading companies like Mingxin Crafts release more than 100 new products each quarter, backed by a research and development budget of over 400,000 yuan annually. Advanced techniques such as color and transfer printing have improved the realism and durability of the flowers, making them highly popular in international markets, especially in Europe and North America. The peak export season lasts from July to September, in the run-up to the Christmas demand surge. This year, businesses in the town have seen a marked increase in export performance.

Beyond economic success, the silk flower industry has profoundly benefited the local community. Over 10,000 villagers are employed in the sector, many with the flexibility to work from home, significantly improving their livelihoods and providing greater work-life balance.

The thriving silk flower industry in Jingzhi town has created over 10,000 local jobs, allowing villagers to work from home and improve their livelihoods. [Photo/Dazhong News]

Looking ahead, Jingzhi town plans to expand with a state-of-the-art industrial park designed to drive innovation, embrace digital transformation, and break into new international markets. As the silk flower industry continues to thrive, it demonstrates how traditional craftsmanship combined with modern innovation can create a globally competitive industry.