In a factory workshop in Chongqing, rows of mini tillers, generators, and energy storage devices are packed for shipment to destinations worldwide. Behind these seemingly ordinary machines is a manufacturing hub with outsized influence: the Chongqing general-purpose machinery (GPM) industrial belt produces and sells more than 14 million units annually—half of China’s total output—with mini tillers alone accounting for two-thirds of national production. These products serve traditional markets in eastern and central Europe and are increasingly reaching Southeast Asia and South America.
Once regarded as China’s de facto capital of mini tillers, this southwestern manufacturing cluster is transforming from a low-profile OEM (original equipment manufacturer) into a global innovation center for GPM.
“In the past, we’ve always been at the bottom of the smile curve. Now we’re stretching to both ends,” said Zhao Ming, deputy general manager of the general machinery division at Loncin Motor. He referred to the familiar model illustrating the challenge for Chinese manufacturing: low value-added assembly in the middle, with high-value R&D and brand marketing concentrated in foreign companies.
Chongqing’s GPM industry has progressed through four phases: building a technical foundation during the Third Front Movement, expanding through private enterprise growth, integrating foreign capital for technology upgrades, and now, pursuing smart, green manufacturing.
The city has established a complete industrial chain, from parts production to final assembly. In agricultural machinery, Chongqing produces roughly two-thirds of China’s mini tillers. In GPM overall, annual production exceeds 14 million units, or half of the nation’s This integrated chain has become a competitive advantage internationally. In 2024, Chongqing’s electromechanical exports reached RMB 454.97 billion (USD 63.7 billion), up 8.4% year-on-year, with GPM products representing a notable share.
Unlike fast-moving consumer goods, GPM products are durable industrial equipment, which makes overseas expansion more challenging. “It’s not like we can create a hit product that sells thousands a day,” Zhao said. “Unit prices are high, and customers buy out of necessity.”
After-sales service poses an even greater hurdle. “Our products require users to have a basic level of mechanical knowledge,” said Xie Fuman, head of the smart terminal division and e-commerce marketing center at Senci. Generators and portable energy storage units require oil and gasoline, as well as regular maintenance—unlike plug-and-play electronics.
“After-sales problems can be life-or-death,” Zhao stressed. “High return rates can instantly wipe out profits.” Building service networks has therefore become a strategic priority for Chongqing’s GPM exporters.
To address these challenges, companies are testing solutions such as video-based guides, secondhand resale channels, and third-party service partnerships.
In response to global industrial shifts, Chongqing firms are also upgrading products. “Generators under 2,000 watts are gradually being replaced by energy storage products,” Zhao said. These devices are quieter, emission-free, and—thanks to advances in battery and chip technology—charge faster and last longer than traditional generators.
Artificial intelligence integration is emerging as another trend. While adoption is constrained by incomplete data, many in the industry see intelligent features as inevitable. “Energy storage devices will eventually become seamless backup power for homes,” Xie said. “When a power outage happens, users won’t even notice as the supply will switch over automatically.”
Senci, one of Chongqing’s major exporters, reported Amazon sales exceeding USD 40 million in 2024, with B2B transactions up more than 20%. Loncin Motor joined Amazon in 2024 and, within about three months, recorded RMB 4 million (USD 560,000) in additional sales. B2B orders from France, Spain, and Italy accounted for more than 10%.
Looking ahead, Chongqing companies are taking a measured view. “In the next five years, there’s unlikely to be a new product that can completely disrupt the GPM market,” said Haimaitong general manager Zhao Xin. He noted that competitiveness will depend on meeting user needs and avoiding closed-off development, ensuring that market feedback drives design.
Xie sees potential in untapped niche applications that could drive future growth. She also underscored the importance of brand building: winning customer loyalty through reliable products and service so that buyers return for upgrades and accessories.
Chongqing’s GPM export story has developed gradually, built on craftsmanship, market awareness, and sustained investment in innovation. These efforts have earned the trust of customers worldwide.
As Zhao put it: “Once we truly embrace independent innovation, the products we already make will naturally find their way to the world.”
KrASIA Connection features translated and adapted content that was originally published by 36Kr. This article was written by Ou Xue for 36Kr.