The Influence of Chaozhou Kiln on Modern and Contemporary Southeast Asian Ceramic Industry

Li Bingyan

Abstract: Based on the author's field work, oral historical sources, as well as other data from the local Chaozhou townsmen associations and porcelain associations, this paper examines the relationship and evolution of the ceramic industry between Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand and Chaozhou in respect of trade and production.

In respect of trading, modern and contemporary Chaozhou ceramic exportation had expanded from Chaozhou to the emerging harbor cities such as Shantou, Hong Kong, and Singapore, among which Singapore had become the transit trade center of China-Southeast Asia trade. The Singapore Porcelain Chamber of Commerce had obtained the right of regional agency of Chaozhou ceramics via the Canton Fair. After China's reform and opening-up, ceramic business both at home and abroad have reached higher level of mutual influence under he effect of economic globalization.

In terms of production, the production technology of modern Chaozhou kiln had influenced the production and development of the ceramic industries in Singapore, Malaysia and Thailand, contributing to the success of a group of Chaozhou emigrants-run-ceramic enterprises. After the 1960s, with the purpose of adapting to the market competition and developing native culture, these enterprises imported advanced equipment and technology under the local policy support, which resulted in the combining features of local feature and international fashion in the products.

Keywords: Modern and Contemporary; Export and Technology of Chaozhou Kiln; Ceramic Industry in Singapore, Malaysia and Thailand

（執(zhí)行編輯：吳婉惠）