Yiwu has made a name of itself as a production center for small household commodities that end up shipped all over China. Yiwu has a number of large department stores and shopping centers that don't have anything special. Clothing shoes, appliances and electronics are all available here at fixed (higher) prices. Markets are a great alternative, and Yiwu has a lot of them.

As with all Chinese markets, bargaining is essential with larger quantities fetching lower prices. Like most markets in China, the language barrier is not too much of a problem, as bargaining and transactions can be carried out via calculator. Bargaining takes skill and dedication, and is an art that must be perfected over years, but there are some simple tips to help new players: Never show too much interest in an object or you'll never get it cheap; pretend that you are an expert in whatever it is you are buying; over exaggerate; and definitely do not be afraid to walk away at least a few times to see the price drop.

There are a number of massive wholesale markets in Yiwu, with customers coming from all over Europe, the Middle East and Asia, all shouting and bargaining for everything from toys to hardware to cosmetics, all in bulk. Even if not buying, it is great just to go and see markets such as the International Trade City or China Commodity City, for the experience. There are retail shops that sell many of the same items that can be found in the wholesale markets on the 2nd and 3rd floors of the International Trade City, phase 2.

Everything can be found in Yiwu, but the local specialty seems to be produce. The region is well known for the nan date, brown sugar, Jinhua pork, tea, flowers and liquor.