Published by ChinaMNC · Datong
How Foreign Founders Can Leverage China’s Historical Classic Industries: Lessons from Huainan’s Chu Ding Replica
A practical guide for foreign founders on China’s historical classic industries policy, using Huainan’s exhibition at the 2026 World Manufacturing Conference as a case study. Learn about the policy framework, market opportunities, and key considerations for registering or operating a company in China’s cultural and creative sectors.
China’s Push for Historical Classic Industries
In August 2026, six Chinese government departments—including the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security, the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, the Ministry of Commerce, the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, and the State Administration for Market Regulation—jointly issued the Opinions on Promoting the High-Quality Development of Historical Classic Industries. This policy defines historical classic industries as traditional Chinese specialty sectors with deep cultural heritage, such as silk, tea, porcelain, arts and crafts, and the four treasures of the study (writing brush, ink stick, paper, and inkstone).
The Opinions emphasize balancing tradition with modern innovation, cultural value with economic benefit, and national characteristics with international trends. They encourage integrated development models like “historical classic + culture” and “historical classic + tourism,” aiming to strengthen the global position and competitiveness of these industries. For foreign founders, this signals growing government support and market opportunities in China’s cultural and creative sectors.
Case Study: Huainan’s Chu Ding Replica at the 2026 World Manufacturing Conference
At the 2026 World Manufacturing Conference, a dedicated exhibition area for historical classic industries was set up. Huainan City organized several representative arts and crafts companies to participate, including Zhaolong Ceramics, Changwen Inkstone Carving, Ziqidonglai Chuyun Culture, and Zhang Chuanjun Ceramics. This platform showcased Huainan’s cultural depth and unique charm to a global audience.
Among the exhibits, a miniature Chu Ding (a traditional Chinese cauldron) presented by Huainan Zhaolong Ceramic Culture Co., Ltd. attracted significant attention. The piece inherits the intangible cultural heritage technique of Shouzhou Kiln. According to Zhu Zhaolong, a leading figure in the excavation, inheritance, and innovative promotion of Shouzhou Kiln and a “Great Country Craftsman,” the Chu Ding replica features a round mouth, square lips, bulging belly, attached ears, and three hoof-shaped feet. The belly is decorated with a raised circular band with molded patterns, and the ears and neck exterior have molded diamond-shaped curved dragon patterns.
Zhu explained that the piece is made using Shouzhou Kiln techniques with clay material, fired in a high-temperature electric kiln at 1260 degrees Celsius for eight hours. The shape and decorative patterns are a 100% replication of the original Chu Ding, making it an authentic “miniature version” of the Wuwangdun Chu Ding. The inspiration came from the archaeological excavation of the Wuwangdun tomb, aiming to “bring Huainan’s cultural relics to life.” Huainan has many Chu artifacts, with the most representative being the national first-class cultural relic—the Chu Ding. The Wuwangdun tomb has yielded the largest Chu Ding discovered to date, which is of great significance.
Market Opportunities for Foreign Founders
This case illustrates several opportunities for foreign founders:
- Cultural products with regional identity: The Chu Ding replica embodies Chu culture and national spirit, offering educational value and boosting cultural confidence. Such culturally rich creative products are popular, especially among young people.
- Innovative combinations: Another work, “Tofu—Stone Mill Tea Set,” cleverly combines tofu culture with Shouzhou Kiln techniques. Multiple pieces have been collected by the China Agricultural Museum, China National Arts and Crafts Museum, Nanhu Revolutionary Memorial Hall, and Anhui Art Museum.
- Global themes with local craft: The third representative work, “Silk Road,” themed on the “Eastern Smile” meditation Buddha of Dunhuang Mogao Caves, uses ceramic art to express the Belt and Road initiative. It features a unique technique of alternating reduction and oxidation firing to achieve a seven-color effect, showcasing innovative firing methods.
These examples show how traditional craftsmanship can be adapted to contemporary themes and global markets, creating niche opportunities for foreign founders with an eye for design and cultural storytelling.
Practical Guidance for Registering or Operating a Company in China
If you are a foreign founder interested in entering China’s historical classic industries, consider the following practical steps:
1. Understand the Policy Landscape
Familiarize yourself with the Opinions on Promoting the High-Quality Development of Historical Classic Industries and related local policies. These documents outline government priorities, support measures, and development directions. While the Opinions do not specify direct subsidies, they indicate a favorable environment for cultural and creative enterprises.
2. Choose the Right Business Structure
Foreign founders typically establish a Wholly Foreign-Owned Enterprise (WFOE) or a Joint Venture (JV) with a Chinese partner. For cultural industries, a WFOE is common, but ensure your business scope includes design, production, and sale of arts and crafts. Consulting a local professional is essential to navigate registration requirements.
3. Leverage Local Cultural Resources
Collaborate with local artisans, intangible cultural heritage inheritors, and cultural institutions. For instance, Huainan’s Shouzhou Kiln techniques are a unique asset. Partnering with established figures like Zhu Zhaolong or companies like Zhaolong Ceramics can provide credibility and access to specialized skills.
4. Protect Intellectual Property
China has been strengthening IP protection. Register your trademarks, designs, and patents early. For cultural products, copyright and design patents are crucial. Utilize local IP service centers and legal expertise to safeguard your innovations.
5. Explore Exhibition and Trade Platforms
Participate in events like the World Manufacturing Conference, which features dedicated areas for historical classic industries. Such platforms offer visibility, networking, and market testing opportunities. Huainan’s participation demonstrates how local governments support companies in showcasing their products internationally.
6. Focus on Cultural Storytelling and Quality
As seen with the Chu Ding replica, products that authentically convey cultural narratives and maintain high craftsmanship standards attract attention and collector interest. Ensure your offerings resonate with both domestic and international consumers by blending tradition with modern aesthetics.
7. Understand Tax and Compliance Obligations
Foreign-invested enterprises in China are subject to corporate income tax, value-added tax, and other levies. While specific incentives may exist for cultural industries in certain regions, always consult a tax advisor. Compliance with local regulations, including environmental standards for manufacturing, is mandatory.
Conclusion
China’s historical classic industries are receiving renewed policy emphasis, creating a dynamic market for culturally infused products. The success of Huainan’s Chu Ding replica at the 2026 World Manufacturing Conference illustrates how traditional craftsmanship can be innovatively presented to global audiences. For foreign founders, this sector offers opportunities to combine cultural respect with commercial viability. By understanding the policy framework, choosing appropriate business structures, and leveraging local partnerships, you can position your venture for success in China’s evolving cultural economy.
This summary is based on information published by the relevant Chinese government website and is general information, not legal or tax advice.