Yiwu China Wholesale Market

If you are an e-commerce seller, a retail store owner, or a global importer, you have likely heard of Yiwu, China. Known as the “World’s Largest Small Commodity Wholesale Market”, Yiwu is the primary source for a vast majority of the world’s jewelry, toys, household goods, and Christmas decorations.

Spanning over 5.5 million square meters with more than 75,000 booths, the Yiwu International Trade City (also known as Futian Market) is a massive complex that can be overwhelming for first-time visitors. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about sourcing from this global trading powerhouse.

What Makes Yiwu Different from Canton Fair or Shenzhen?

Unlike the Canton Fair, which happens twice a year, the Yiwu Market is open year-round (except during the Chinese New Year). While Shenzhen is the capital of electronics and Guangzhou is known for high-end fashion and furniture, Yiwu specializes in “small commodities” low-cost, high-volume items.

Key Advantages:

  • Low Minimum Order Quantities (MOQs): Many vendors allow you to buy by the box rather than by the container.
  • Variety: You can find almost any consumer good imaginable in one city.
  • Ready Stock: Most items displayed are already in production and ready for quick shipping.

Navigating the 5 Districts of International Trade City

The market is organized into five main districts. Knowing where to go will save you days of walking.

District 1: Ornaments and Toys

This is the oldest and most popular district for international buyers.

  • 1st Floor: Common toys, electronic toys, and artificial flowers.
  • 2nd Floor: Jewelry, hair ornaments, and accessories.
  • 3rd Floor: Ornament accessories and festive crafts (Christmas supplies).
  • 4th Floor: Direct sale centers for large manufacturers.

District 2: Hardware and Electronics

  • 1st Floor: Suitcases, bags, and umbrellas.
  • 2nd Floor: Hardware tools, locks, and electrical products.
  • 3rd Floor: Kitchenware, sanitary ware, and small home appliances.
  • 4th Floor: Large-scale manufacturing showrooms.

District 3: Stationery and Cosmetics

  • 1st Floor: Pen and ink, paper products.
  • 2nd Floor: Office supplies and sporting goods.
  • 3rd Floor: Cosmetics, beauty salon equipment, and clothing accessories (zippers, buttons).

District 4: Hosiery and Apparel Accessories

  • 1st Floor: Socks and hosiery.
  • 2nd Floor: Gloves, hats, and scarves.
  • 3rd Floor: Sewing thread, tape, and belts.
  • 4th Floor: Bras, underwear, and neckties.

District 5: Imported Goods and Textiles

  • 1st Floor: Imported food, health products, and jewelry from outside China.
  • 2nd Floor: Bedding and linens.
  • 3rd Floor: Knitted fabrics and curtains.
  • 4th Floor: Car accessories and motorcycle parts.

Essential Tips for Buying in Yiwu

Hire a Sourcing Agent

While many shop owners speak basic English, a local sourcing agent is essential. They don’t just translate; they handle quality control, consolidate shipments from multiple vendors, and manage the complex logistics of exporting from China.

Prepare for B2B, Not Retail

Yiwu is not a shopping mall for tourists. It is a B2B (business-to-business) environment. While some vendors may sell you a single item as a “sample,” the expectation is that you are there to place wholesale orders.

Comfortable Footwear is Non-Negotiable

You will likely walk several miles a day. The market is so large that if you spent only one minute at every booth for eight hours a day, it would take you over five months to see the entire complex.

Understand the Logistics

Yiwu is an inland city, but it has a highly developed logistics network. Goods are typically trucked to the ports of Ningbo or Shanghai for sea freight. There is also the “Yiwu-Madrid” train line, the longest railway in the world, which provides a faster land-based alternative for shipping to Europe.

When to Visit

The market is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best times to visit are:

  • Spring: March to June.
  • Autumn: September to November.

Avoid: The Chinese New Year (usually late January or February), as the entire market closes for about two to three weeks.

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