Shenzhen, often hailed as China’s hub of advanced manufacturing, has transformed into a global leader in consumer electronics and trade. Shenzhen’s electronics and information technology sector contributes one-sixth of China’s total output in this sector. On a global scale, the city produces half of the world’s telecommunication base stations, approximately 15% and 70% of all smartphones and consumer drones, respectively. Building on this foundation, the local electronics sector continues to expand into emerging areas, and recorded year-on-year output growth surpassing 20% in 2024 in several strategic segments, including 3D printers.

Shenzhen-based consumer electronics brands have established a comprehensive business ecosystem spanning R&D, manufacturing, application, and marketing. Overall, four major growth pathways were adopted by many firms for domestic and international expansion.

Figure 1: Four proven pathways for Shenzhen brands’ expansion

Source: JLL South China Research

Source: JLL South China Research