Emerging Stage

This stage mainly started after the Second World War(1945) and ended in the early 1960's.  After the Second World War, changes had begun to take place in Hong Kong's manufacturing production.  The industrial entrepreneurs from the Chinese Mainland, especially those cotton mill operators from Shanghai, brought along not only industrial expertise, capital fund and skilful workers, but also export market networks, resulting in the gradual development of Hong Kong's textiles industry.

Built by Mainland immigrants, the first cotton mill in Hong Kong was established in 1947.  The number of spindled installed had risen from 6,000 to 180,000 by 1951.  In 1950, the value of import and export trade reached HK$7,503 million, among which HK$3,715 million was contributed by export trade (including re-export).  The contribution of domestic exports to the total exports was approximately 10%.  Hong Kong had established good foundation for industrial development.

The other important factor which contributed to the flying start of Hong Kong's manufacturing industry was the first structural transformation of Hong Kong's economy.

Inspection room in a weaving factory showing women inspectors examining cloth which had just come from the looms.

A corner of the laboratory of a big mill where raw cotton yarn and cloth were tested at all stages to ensure high and consistent quality.

A section of a spinning hall where raw cotton began to take on the appearance.

The picture shows factory girls pressing out metal parts for the spring mechanism of umbrellas.