The Daixi town located in Huzhou, East China's Zhejiang province has undergone a remarkable transformation from a mining hub into a thriving center for the beauty industry, keeping ecological advancement while pursuing sustainable economic gains.

In the early 2000s, the town relied heavily on its 30 mines and 28 processing plants, which, despite bringing economic benefits, caused significant environmental damage. To ensure a sustainable future, local authorities made the bold decision to close the mines, paving the way for Daixi's reinvention.

This strategic shift attracted major investments, turning Daixi into a hub for the beauty industry. Proya, a leading Chinese beauty brand, established its production base in the town, drawn by its scenic beauty and harmonious community.

Proya's production base in Daixi town, Huzhou. [Photo/Tide News]

Proya's advanced smart factory, equipped with cutting-edge technology, boosts production efficiency and product quality, promoting green and low-carbon production. In 2024, Proya achieved a revenue milestone of 10.78 billion yuan ($1.50 billion) — becoming the first domestic beauty company to surpass the 10 billion yuan mark.

Additionally, Huzhou Yufan Cosmetics Technology Company set up its operations in Daixi, specializing in fragrances and skincare products for the global markets.

Over a decade, Daixi has emerged as one of China's top three cosmetics industry clusters, hosting over 300 related business enterprises.

The town also integrates tourism with its beauty industry, hosting cosmetic-related events like the Fragrance Art Festival and attracting over 300,000 visits annually. It has become an important platform to show the local cosmetic culture.