How Lizu Village Transformed Rural China with Innovation and Trade
Lizu village in Yiwu has become a model of rural transformation, blending modern services with thriving agriculture. The community now hosts 80 innovation projects and 282 'new farmers', driving annual sales of 70 million yuan ($10.3 million). Its success has drawn attention from national leaders, including Chinese President Xi Jinping. The village’s growth stems from Yiwu’s broader urban-rural integration strategy. Once a quiet farming area, Lizu now operates as an active part of the city’s market network. A 365-day convenience centre, health stations, a clinic, and a courier point serve both residents and visitors. Over a million tourists arrive each year, boosting local businesses.
Since September 2023, the number of 'new farmers'—skilled entrepreneurs in agriculture—has climbed from 220 to 282. Among them is Nan Fang, who co-founded a Song brocade handicraft workshop and brought her students into the trade. Jin Ying also joined the village’s economy in 2025, opening a café that now sells around 40 cups of coffee daily.
Lizu’s expansion extends beyond its borders. The village has partnered with eight neighbouring communities, planning 81 sub-projects worth a total of 616 million yuan. Meanwhile, Yiwu’s small commodities trade has grown into a major industry, shaping what officials now call the 'Yiwu development experience'. President Xi Jinping has called for deeper study and wider use of Yiwu’s approach. The village’s mix of modern services, tourism, and agricultural innovation continues to attract investment. With rising sales and new partnerships, Lizu’s model shows how rural areas can integrate into larger economic systems.
