Shenzhen's Huaqiangbei, one of the world's largest electronics markets, is drawing growing numbers of international buyers eager to explore the latest AI-powered consumer technology, from smart glasses and smartphones to drones and companion robots.

The market has seen strong momentum this year, averaging nearly 8,000 foreign business visitors daily since the start of 2026. Between January and July, AI product sales rose by more than 55 percent, with smart glasses recording a 100-percent increase and drones and robots posting gains of 60 to 70 percent.

Demand has also been supported by updated EU trade rules introduced in July, which exempt smart glasses and other wearable devices from certain portable battery replacement requirements, reducing production costs and encouraging more customised orders from European buyers.

Meanwhile, AI-powered plush toys capable of recognising faces, remembering interactions and supporting 67 languages have emerged as a fast-growing category, with overseas demand rising sharply during the summer.