Green energy-saving products help boost the recovery of China's lighting exports

As consumers' environmental awareness gradually increases and export markets adopt stricter environmental standards, suppliers are continuously developing more energy-saving products. In addition, to reduce the carbon emissions of products, many suppliers have switched to materials and accessories that are safer for the environment and human health.

Ms. Ye Jing, publisher of the "China Sourcing Report -- Lighting & Electrical Accessories", said: "Since many countries have begun to implement plans to ban the use of incandescent lamps, market demand for energy-saving lamps has recovered from the lows seen during the economic crisis; at the same time, exports of LED lighting products have continued to grow. We expect demand to keep rising, as technological advances have lowered production costs, and product prices will fall accordingly."

Chinese suppliers are also actively strengthening their R&D capabilities to enhance their competitive edge. Ms. Ye added: "With market competition heating up, suppliers are increasing investment in product development to boost sales."

Interviewed lighting and electrical accessories suppliers said:

--58% will focus on developing more energy-efficient products;

--18% plan to improve product durability;

--11% will focus on designing more aesthetically pleasing products;

--8% said they will adopt eco-friendly materials;

--5% will focus on obtaining RoHS certification.

Export trend expected to be strong

China's lighting industry is optimistic about exports in 2010, with suppliers expecting product demand to increase in the coming months. Almost all surveyed suppliers (98%) expect their export sales to rise strongly, with more than half of respondents forecasting at least a 20% increase in overseas revenue, while one third said the ••crease will range between 10% and 20%.