In December 2018, Xie was honored by the CPC Central Committee and the State Council as a "pioneer of reform". He was also listed among the "most beautiful contributors" in celebration of the 70th anniversary of the founding of New China.

"No entrepreneur, however rich, can compare to Xie, because his legacy goes beyond time and laid the foundation to Yiwu's prosperity," said Zhang Jianliang, head of the Quzhou Chamber of Commerce in Yiwu.

Locals bid a final farewell to Xie Gaohua at his funeral in Quzhou on Oct 27. [Photo/ zgyww.cn]