Lighter surface treatment (labelling&printing) in factory
In recent years, there has been much speculation about the "shift of China's low-end manufacturing to India and Southeast Asia." The logic behind this assumption is that as China's economy develops, labor costs rise, making it logical for low-end manufacturing to relocate to countries with even lower labor costs. However, the reality is more complex, and many so-called low-end manufacturing industries possess hidden high-end capabilities.
Unveiling the Complexities
Let's take the example of a disposable lighter, an item typically sold for a minimal price. One might consider it a low-end product due to its simple design and materials. Surprisingly, Shaodong County in Hunan Province, China, produces a staggering 70% of the world's disposable lighters. How is it possible that a seemingly basic product is tied to a specific location? The answer lies in the intricate and irreplaceable manufacturing barriers that have been established over years of development.
The Power of Know-How
Shaodong County boasts a wealth of experienced individuals with invaluable know-how. These experts have spent years honing their skills, acquiring tacit knowledge through hands-on experience. For instance, the county is home to skilled manufacturers who have perfected the art of automated equipment manufacturing. Through their relentless efforts, they have developed reliable automated production equipment, leading to a significant reduction in production costs by 95%. Such innovation is a testament to their expertise, far from the conventional notion of low-end capabilities.
Managing a Complex Supply Chain
The production of a disposable lighter involves a vast and intricate supply chain. With eight different product series and over 260 models, each consisting of more than 30 components, the coordination required is immense. Additionally, the assembly process encompasses numerous steps and specialized supply chains. Over the past decade, Shaodong County has nurtured a network of over a hundred supply chain enterprises, operating within close proximity to each other. The seamless exchange of materials and efficient coordination among these enterprises is a testament to their ability to manage complexity.
The Role of Industry Organization
To ensure harmonious collaboration and protect innovation, the Shaodong Lighter Association plays a vital role in organizing the local industry. It serves as an overseeing body, managing relationships and fostering a healthy supply chain ecosystem. The association has implemented measures such as a new product database, preventing counterfeiting and rejecting similar products. They have also established a price regulation committee to discourage undercutting within the cluster. Additionally, the association has facilitated transportation and sought global sales channels, solidifying the industry's global presence.
Cultivating Manufacturing Capabilities
Shaodong County's success story in the lighter manufacturing industry exemplifies China's capabilities in low-end manufacturing. Rather than being limited to manual labor, these capabilities have developed incrementally. Starting with manual labor, they progress to automated assembly lines, followed by complex supply chains, and culminate in meticulous industry organization. This growth is akin to nurturing a tree, cultivating the desired capabilities at each stage of development.
The prevailing notion of low-end manufacturing often fails to capture the depth and complexity of certain industries. China's manufacturing prowess in Shaodong County demonstrates that low-end products can be tied to high-end capabilities and intricate manufacturing barriers. As the world looks towards China's economic landscape, it is essential to appreciate the multifaceted nature of its manufacturing sector and the valuable expertise that underpins it.
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