data brief
China's Fishing Tackle Exports Hit $181M Monthly in 2026 — Global Dominance Continues
Key Figures: China’s Fishing Tackle Trade (2026)
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Monthly Exports (May 2026) | $181 million |
| Monthly Imports (May 2026) | $16.3 million |
| Trade Surplus (May 2026) | $164 million |
| Global Production Share | 80%+ from China |
| Weihai Contribution | 50%+ of global output |
| Weihai Factories | 1,000+ |
Source: OEC World Trade Data, HS 9507 (Fishing and Hunting Equipment).
China’s Grip on Global Fishing Tackle Manufacturing
The numbers confirm what industry insiders have long known: China is the undisputed manufacturing powerhouse for global fishing tackle. With over 80% of the world’s fishing equipment originating from Chinese factories, the country’s export volumes serve as a barometer for the global recreational fishing industry.
Weihai: The Fishing Tackle Capital
The city of Weihai, Shandong Province, alone accounts for over half of China’s — and therefore the world’s — fishing tackle production. Home to more than 1,000 fishing tackle factories, Weihai has developed a complete industrial ecosystem spanning:
- Rod blank manufacturing
- Reel assembly and component production
- Line, hook, and terminal tackle
- Packaging, logistics, and export services
In the first three quarters of 2024 alone, fishing tackle exports through Weihai Port reached RMB 2.033 billion ($280M+ USD), demonstrating the city’s outsized role in the global supply chain.
Other Major Production Clusters
Beyond Weihai, China’s fishing tackle industry is concentrated in several key regions:
- Gu’an (Hebei) — Fishing rod components, carp fishing gear
- Linxiang (Hunan) — Fishing floats and terminal tackle
- Guangdong — High-end reel manufacturing, OEM/ODM for international brands
- Zhejiang — Fishing chairs, outdoor equipment (Lexin Outdoor HQ)
- Hubei — Fishing bait and attractants (Laogui, Longwanghen)
Export Trends
China’s dominance in fishing tackle manufacturing means its export data reflects global demand trends. The consistent $180M+ monthly export figures in 2026 suggest:
- Post-pandemic normalisation — Outdoor recreational activities remain strong post-COVID
- Growing global angler base — Particularly in Europe, Southeast Asia, and North America
- Premium product shift — Chinese manufacturers moving up the value chain from basic OEM to branded ODM products
Outlook
With downstream demand remaining robust, China’s fishing tackle exports are projected to maintain their growth trajectory through 2026-2027. The September 2026 CGC Weihai International Fishing Tackle Expo will serve as a key barometer for the industry’s direction in the coming year.
Found a mistake? See our corrections policy. Have a tip? Contact the editor.