In the first half of 2014, the downturn in China's real estate market continues, and so does ceramic industry. Sichuan, Fujian, Zibo and other areas all have witnessed sales declines at different levels, except Linyi, where the sales are quite stable. It is preliminary estimated that, during the first five months this year, there is a slight increase in the output value and over 30 % growth in profit in Linyi’s ceramic industry.

Li Jibao, Deputy Director-General of Economy & Information Technology Bureau of Luozhuang District in Linyi, clarifies Linyi’s contribution to China’s ceramics:

Linyi has been a traditional ceramic production area since late 1980s, yet, quality and brand building are put more effort to during last 10 years. Currently, 20 companies have started brand building and 10 companies focus on high-grade tiles, out of more than 90 companies in Linyi. The latest statistics shows thatLinyi City has the largest tile production nationally. The annual tile output of Linyi reaches 400 million ㎡ accounting for over half of the total production in Linyi area. The annual ceramic output value of Linyi has been more than 10 billion RMB, with a total production of 700 million ㎡ of which export accounts for 12 % ~15 %.

The demand for equipment applications in Linyi area is urgent. Li Jibao tells: within last 18 months, the area buys more than 100 inkjet printers, and upgrades equipment like polishing lines or dry edge grinding machines. Linyi area has more than 180 production lines, and over 110 inkjet printers are working at present when some other equipment is under negotiation.

Editor Deng Shiya

This is the 9th issue.