Jingdezhen, known as the “Porcelain Capital,” has long been a hub for ceramics, dating back centuries to when its porcelain reached markets via the Maritime Silk Road, earning the title of “white gold” in Europe. Today, the city continues to thrive with the spirit of “ceramics reaching the world,” drawing in porcelain buyers from across the globe.
The 2024 China Jingdezhen International Ceramics Expo, held from October 18 to 22, attracted not only ceramic enterprises and brands from major production regions but also a diverse range of buyers from around the world.
As attendees explored the exhibition hall, the sound of breaking porcelain occasionally echoed through the venue, piquing the curiosity and concern of many buyers. This unique phenomenon was part of a “find the flaw” activity organized by Changnan Ceramics, a well-established brand in Jingdezhen.
“Our quality control process involves destroying any flawed products that do not meet our standards,” explained Fu Bilin, Chairman of Changnan Cultural Co., Ltd. “During the expo, we prepared 500 defective pieces each day for participants to examine. Visitors can select an item, identify its flaws, and smash it on the spot.”
On October 19, amidst the festivities of the expo, a buyer took part in the “find the flaw” activity, capturing the engagement of many. The exhibition featured clearly defined areas for international brands, renowned kilns, art collections, and daily-use ceramics. Buyers meticulously inspected items against the light, with some foreign buyers filming promotional content for their clients.
“When we recently signed a procurement project valued at 15 million RMB with a company from Pakistan, it primarily involves our newly developed coffee mugs and other products tailored to their cultural preferences,” shared Yang Dongpeng, Chairman of Jingdezhen Minghai Ceramics Co., Ltd. He emphasized the role of ceramics in promoting Chinese culture abroad, expressing a desire to strengthen ties with Pakistani partners through this opportunity.
Aleksandrov Stan, Procurement Director at Sni Business from Bulgaria, stated, “Every year, we manage several shipping containers between Bulgaria and China, and we have years of experience in ceramics. Our goal at this expo is to collaborate with Jingdezhen’s daily-use and artistic ceramic businesses to leverage its high artistic value and quality, ultimately benefiting our company.”
Russian buyer Nastya expressed her intent to seek uniquely designed daily-use ceramics for the Russian market, including coffee mugs, plates, and bowls. “During the expo, I captured photos of many appealing samples, visited several factories, and exchanged contact information with local ceramic companies.”
In this thousand-year-old porcelain city, buyers gather around ceramics, showcasing the fusion and collision of Eastern and Western cultures that the expo celebrates.
“I brought Italian ceramics, along with other handicrafts like leather goods and jewelry, and even coffee to pair with the ceramics,” shared Xinyun from Italy. “This trip has deepened my understanding of ceramic culture while also introducing the public to Italian culture and distinctive handcrafted products. I believe everyone has their unique tastes and can find the products that truly suit them here at the expo.”
