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China's injection molding machine strides towards branding
In recent years, more and more users have started to prioritize quality, service, and efficiency over just price when purchasing injection molding machines. A small business manager in Shaoxing, Henan, who is preparing to expand production of plastic water bottles, shared his experience with reporters. He emphasized that buying machines isn't just about cost—machines that are energy-efficient, easy to operate, and offer good after-sales support can save money in the long run. “We often choose a less-known brand because it offers better service, is user-friendly, and costs less than a generic machine,†he said.
The manager explained that his company began producing plastic water bottles and toy shells back in 2003, initially purchasing three injection molding machines. Due to limited funds, they opted for two cheaper, generic brands and one second-hand branded machine. However, he soon realized that while the initial cost was lower, the performance and maintenance were far from ideal. “The brand machine was second-hand, but the manufacturer provided factory-guided maintenance and even sent technicians to assist with parameter settings and troubleshooting. It was much easier to use,†he noted.
In contrast, the two generic machines had issues like broken screws and required frequent repairs. “They haven’t been fixed yet, so we had to buy new ones. The electricity consumption wasn’t too bad, but the branded machine was more energy-efficient and quieter. Workers prefer to work around it,†he added.
According to an official from the China Plastics Machinery Industry Association, this shift in consumer behavior reflects the industry’s development over the years. “It shows that our industry has matured, with many companies now building strong brands and achieving healthy growth,†the official said. This year, three Chinese brands were recognized as national champions in the injection molding machine sector, a clear sign of progress.
China has become the world's largest producer of injection molding machines, accounting for a third of global output. Technological advancements and quality improvements have brought domestic machines close to the level of developed countries. Some models even surpass foreign counterparts and are exported to 87 countries. Last year, China’s injection molding machine exports exceeded $200 million, with Haitian Group alone exporting over $120 million, making it one of the top four manufacturers globally.
The industry is moving away from low-end competition toward high-end innovation and branding. Production is becoming more concentrated, with about 700 companies in total, and 376 of them are large-scale enterprises. Ningbo alone accounts for over 60% of the national market. At the same time, technological upgrades are accelerating, and standard models are now on par with global leaders. Specialized models are also improving, with some reaching or exceeding international standards.
Haitian Group’s HTD all-electric injection molding machine features advanced servo control, high-tech encoders, and energy-saving designs, outperforming similar Japanese models. Guangdong Kenli also made history by developing China’s first digital optical disc injection molding machine, ending reliance on imported equipment.
Despite these achievements, there are still concerns about the longevity and stability of some domestic machines. However, with continuous improvement, the confidence in Chinese brands is growing. As the industry continues to innovate, domestic products are increasingly replacing imported ones, especially in major sectors like home appliances and daily goods. Even high-tonnage machines are now being produced locally, reducing dependence on foreign alternatives.
In summary, the injection molding machine industry in China is evolving rapidly, driven by technical innovation, improved quality, and a stronger brand presence. As domestic companies continue to develop, their products are gaining more recognition both at home and abroad.