Zheng'an becomes a global hub for guitar manufacturing

The town of Zheng'an in China's Guizhou province has transformed into a global hub for guitar manufacturing, now producing one in every seven guitars sold worldwide. This rapid industrial rise occurred in just one decade, evolving from a region with no significant guitar industry to a major exporter.

The growth was driven by a local government initiative launched in 2012 called “return the phoenix to the nest.” This strategy aimed to encourage skilled migrant workers to return from manufacturing hubs like Guangdong to start businesses in their hometown. To support this, authorities provided financial incentives, tax exemptions, and rent subsidies.

One notable success is Shenqu Guitar, founded by Zheng Chuanjiu. After establishing a successful business in Guangzhou, Zheng returned to Zheng'an to settle in the town's new economic zone. His move helped catalyze the local industry, which has since seen the emergence of 87 homegrown brands.