Hong Kong Originals: Once export giant, Yuet Tung China Works looks inwards to keep hand-painted porcelain alive

As Hong Kong's economic boom faded and manufacturing shifted to China, many long-established, family-run companies faced the challenge of preserving their traditions while others sought innovation to survive. In our new series, we explore the craftsmanship and spirit behind the goods that still bear the proud label of “Made in Hong Kong,” as local firms navigate the complexities of the US-China trade war.

One such company is Yuet Tung China Works, the city's oldest hand-painted porcelain factory, which has been in operation for 98 years. Nestled in an industrial building in Kowloon Bay, the factory stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of Hong Kong's manufacturing heritage.

Joseph Tso, the third-generation owner of Yuet Tung China Works, wields a brush with bristles tapered to a needle-thin point, meticulously applying black overglaze paint to an old Guangcai porcelain piece. Despite his age in his late seventies, Tso's deft hand fills the gaps in the outlines of the porcelain with precision. “These old ones, the outlines are all broken, and the colours have faded,” he says, his arm resting on a wooden box to alleviate the numbness in his hand. “Back in the day, I would have just handed this to one of our painters.”

Tso's journey with the factory began when he was six years old, as his family moved from mainland China to Hong Kong in 1956. Growing up surrounded by porcelainware, Tso was immersed in the world of hand-painted porcelain from a young age. The factory, originally named Kam Wah Loong, was established by Tso's grandfather in 1928 in Kowloon City.

“Historically, there was a lot of conflict in China, whereas Hong Kong was much more stable,” Tso explains. “My grandfather saw an opportunity and realised that foreigners really liked our porcelain, so he set up the first factory.” Two decades later, after World War II, the factory was renamed Yuet Tung – its name to this day.

The industrial boom that followed the war saw Hong Kong's manufacturing sector thrive, with Yuet Tung China Works playing a significant role in the city's porcelain industry. The factory's products were in high demand, and its reputation for quality and craftsmanship grew both locally and internationally.

However, as manufacturing shifted to China and Hong Kong's economic landscape changed, Yuet Tung China Works faced new challenges. The US-China trade war further complicated the situation, as tariffs and trade restrictions impacted the industry.

Despite these challenges, Yuet Tung China Works has chosen to look inwards, preserving its traditional methods and focusing on the intricate art of hand-painting porcelain. The factory's workers, many of whom have been with the company for decades, continue to pass down their skills to new generations.

Inside the factory, a worker meticulously prepares paint, carefully mixing colors and ensuring the right consistency for the porcelain pieces. The air is filled with the scent of glaze and the soft hum of conversation among the artisans. Each piece is treated with the utmost care, as the workers strive to maintain the high standards that have defined Yuet Tung China Works for nearly a century.

Tso's decision to prioritize tradition over mass production has allowed the factory to carve out a niche market. While many competitors have turned to automation or shifted production to China, Yuet Tung China Works remains committed to its roots. The factory's porcelain pieces, with their intricate designs and meticulous craftsmanship, continue to captivate collectors and enthusiasts around the world.

As Hong Kong navigates the complexities of its shifting economic landscape, companies like Yuet Tung China Works serve as a reminder of the city's rich manufacturing heritage. By preserving their traditions and focusing on the artistry of their craft, these family-run businesses not only ensure the survival of their legacy but also contribute to the unique identity that defines "Made in Hong Kong."

In an era where globalization and automation have reshaped industries, Yuet Tung China Works stands as a beacon of resilience and dedication to the timeless art of hand-painted porcelain. The factory's enduring presence is a testament to the power of tradition and the indomitable spirit of those who have chosen to keep their craft alive.