Candy, as a popular confectionery, is typically made by mixing sugar, water, various sweeteners, flavorings, colorings, and other ingredients such as fruits, nuts, and dairy products. They come in a variety of shapes, colors, flavors, and textures to cater to different consumer preferences.

        Today, let's delve into the development of Chinese confectionery in recent years using the customs code HS: 17049000, which excludes cocoa-free confectionery (excluding chewing gum).

        According to customs data, from 2018 to 2023, the overall export of Chinese confectionery (HS: 17049000) showed a fluctuating upward trend. In 2022, it reached a historic high, with total exports amounting to $1,299,540,020, a year-on-year increase of 31%. The total export volume reached 392,753,830 kilograms, a year-on-year increase of 26.8%. However, in 2020, due to the impact of the pandemic, the export market for Chinese confectionery declined, with the overall export volume decreasing by 14.24% compared to the previous year. With the control of the pandemic, the export volume of Chinese confectionery rebounded in 2021 to 309,753,269 kilograms, a year-on-year increase of 16.42%.

        As of March 2024, Chinese confectionery has maintained a steady upward trend. According to customs data, the cumulative export volume of Chinese confectionery from January to March 2024 reached 103,625,303 kilograms, a year-on-year increase of 17.53%. The total export value amounted to $330,133,372, a year-on-year increase of 16.15%, indicating a positive trend in the export of Chinese confectionery.

        The Chinese confectionery industry, as one of the leading suppliers in the global confectionery market, has consistently ranked at the forefront of global confectionery exports. Despite the remarkable performance of Chinese confectionery exports, the domestic confectionery market is mainly dominated by international brands. According to customs data, in 2023, the main sources of imports for Chinese confectionery were Thailand, Malaysia, Germany, the United States, and Japan, accounting for 16.86%, 12.84%, 9.41%, and 8.16% of the total export volume, respectively. These markets collectively hold a significant market share, indicating the competitive pressure faced by domestic confectionery brands from foreign competitors.

        Candy is not only beloved as a snack but also plays an important role in holiday celebrations, children's parties, and gift-giving. However, due to its high sugar content, consuming candy in moderation and maintaining a balanced diet is key to health. In recent years, with the increasing health awareness among consumers, the market has seen more options for healthier candies, such as low-sugar, sugar-free, and those fortified with vitamins or minerals.

        It is expected that in the coming years, with the strengthening of consumer health awareness, the Chinese confectionery industry may pay more attention to product innovation and health-oriented transformation to adapt to changes in domestic and international market demands, thereby enhancing competitiveness in the global market.

        Chinese confectionery brands are exploring the path to internationalization. Despite the challenges involved, this process reflects the determination of Chinese confectionery enterprises to expand into global markets.

        Overall, the Chinese confectionery industry plays a significant role in international trade, serving as both a major exporting country and a market of intense competition for international brands. In the future, with internal adjustments and upgrades within the industry, Chinese confectionery brands are expected to gain higher recognition and market share globally

(This article is an original creation by Guomao Tong. Please indicate the source when reposting.)