Taizhou exported 503 million yuan ($69.2 million) worth of eyewear and accessories from January to May, marking an uptick of 4.83 percent year-on-year, as reported by Taizhou Customs.

An example of this upward trend is Zhejiang Zhansheng Glasses Co Ltd, situated in Duqiao town, Linhai, a county-level city in Taizhou, which epitomizes the evolution of Taizhou's optical lens industry.

Li Jiaojiao, head of the company's business department, shared insights into their journey, stating, "Since 2006, our company has been exploring overseas markets, earning acclaim in various countries such as Russia, South Korea, Bulgaria, India, and Turkey." With a steadfast commitment to innovation, the company dedicates substantial resources to annual new product development and design, unveiling a diverse array of styles for discerning customers.

In a significant stride last year, the company introduced a revolutionary lightweight material, enhancing the wearability for consumers. This innovation not only expanded the company's market reach but also resonated strongly with consumers. Notably, in the first five months of this year, the company saw a 30 percent increase in export volume, with a 10 percent rise in orders from South Korea.

Chen Zhaoshui, secretary-general of the Linhai Eyewear Industry Association, mentioned that the growing Chinese-Russian trade relations have spurred a surge in eyewear orders from Russia, while the exploration of markets involved in the Belt and Road Initiative has resulted in a steady increase in orders from Turkey.

The latest figures from Taizhou Customs underscore this positive momentum. Taizhou's exports of eyeglasses to countries participating in the Belt and Road Initiative surged to 222 million yuan, up by 11.33 percent year-on-year.