History and Development of Yuanqin Brush Industry in Anqing

History and Development of Yuanqin Brush Industry in Anqing

1. Historical Background

Yuantan Town, located in Qianshan City, Anhui Province, is renowned as the "Brush Capital of China." The brush industry in Yuantan began in the 1970s, initially consisting of small family workshops producing basic brushes such as paintbrushes and brooms.

After China's reform and opening-up, the local government encouraged the development of private enterprises, leading to a surge in brush manufacturing businesses. By the 1990s, the industry entered a rapid growth phase, with companies adopting automated equipment to enhance production efficiency and expanding into industrial brush markets.

In 2003, Yuantan was officially named the "National Brush Industry Base" by the China National Light Industry Council, solidifying its status as a key player in China's brush industry.

2. Current Industry Status

Today, Yuantan is one of China's largest brush production hubs, with over 200 brush manufacturers, an annual output exceeding 8 billion yuan, and more than 2,000 varieties of brushes, including industrial brushes, household brushes, cleaning brushes, and cosmetic brushes, exported to Europe, America, Southeast Asia, and the Middle East.

The industry has formed a complete supply chain, from raw materials (such as nylon filaments, hog bristles, and wooden handles) to machinery manufacturing, production, and sales. In recent years, local enterprises have focused on technological innovation, developing high-end products like high-speed rail cleaning brushes, solar panel cleaning brushes, and robotic polishing brushes, driving the industry toward intelligent and high-end manufacturing.

3. Application Fields

Industrial Use: Machinery cleaning, metal polishing, textile printing, and electronic equipment dust removal.

Environmental Protection: Road sweepers, waste treatment equipment, etc.

Household & Daily Use: Paintbrushes, makeup brushes, toothbrushes, etc.

Emerging Industries: Solar panel cleaning brushes, high-speed rail maintenance brushes, etc.

4. Future Prospects

The Yuantan brush industry is moving toward smart manufacturing, green production, and brand development, enhancing product value through technological innovation and building globally recognized brush brands. Meanwhile, the local government promotes the "Internet + Brush Industry" model, expanding e-commerce channels to help businesses enter international markets.