As the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the U.S., Canada, and Mexico approaches, global enthusiasm for sports continues to rise. Ningbo, leveraging its world-class port advantages, has become a key gateway for exporting sports equipment. According to Ningbo Customs, in the first four months of 2026, the port exported CNY 7.84 billion worth of sports goods and equipment, up 12.4% year-on-year.
This growth reflects the proactive market adjustments and regional adaptation strategies of Ningbo sports manufacturers. A typical example is Bestar Infant & Child Products Co., Ltd. (hereinafter “Bestar”). In the first four months of the year, Bestar’s exports to Mexico exceeded CNY 6 million, a 2.2-fold increase.
“We continuously monitor trends and customer needs in the North American market, optimizing our products in terms of quality, functionality, packaging, and pricing,” said Chen Runyao, General Manager of Bestar.
For instance, Bestar’s patented five-sided dipped dumbbells are environmentally friendly, durable, and adaptable to multiple scenarios, fully meeting the diverse needs of local families and gyms.
Chen added:
“Looking ahead, we will continue to leverage independent innovation and local adaptation, deepen our overseas market presence, and bring our proprietary brand to a broader international stage, allowing more high-quality Chinese-made products to reach households worldwide.”
Innovation and Versatility Drive Overseas Success
Ease of storage and multifunctionality are also key factors driving domestic products overseas. Ningbo Bofu Electric Co., Ltd., a manufacturer of fitness equipment such as slimming machines and treadmills, reported exports to the U.S. of CNY 40 million in the first four months, an increase of nearly 30%.
“We innovated our treadmills with features like foldability and dual shock absorption, which helped expand our market,” said Dong Xipan, Chairman of Bofu.
From fitness machines to ball sports equipment, and from water sports gear to mountaineering equipment, “Made in China” products are gaining popularity overseas through diversified product lines and continuous quality upgrades.
Key Export Figures of Ningbo port
In the first four months of 2026, Ningbo port exported:
- Treadmills and related parts/accessories: CNY 1.54 billion, +2.5% YoY
- Basketballs, soccer balls, and volleyballs: CNY 180 million, +45.1% YoY
- Lawn tennis equipment: CNY 66.82 million, +37.4% YoY
- Windsurfing boards: CNY 223,000 (no exports in the same period last year)
By market, the U.S. remains Ningbo’s largest destination for sports goods, with exports reaching CNY 2.87 billion, +6.4% YoY. Meanwhile, traditional European markets saw strong growth: Germany +27%, UK +8.1%, Netherlands +21%. Emerging markets performed particularly well: Brazil +88% YoY, Mexico +38%, India +40.4%.
Ningbo Customs Supports Exporters
Given the diversity of sports products, fast product cycles, and complex foreign technical trade measures, Ningbo Customs has actively conducted policy briefings and standard interpretations to help companies reduce trade risks and compliance costs. By offering services such as pre-declaration and inspection appointment, customs has significantly shortened clearance times for sports goods.
“We will continue implementing the ‘Proactive-Clear Direct Line · Enterprise Needs Priority Response’ mechanism, strengthen trend analysis and early warning services for sports exports, and provide more facilitation measures to help domestic brands sail globally,” said Guo Xuejun, Director of the Export Department at Haishu Customs, Ningbo.
