Zhonghua
Time-Honored BrandZhonghua · Shanghai · Founded 1932
Zhonghua is a time-honored Shanghai brand renowned for its pencils and stationery, carrying the memory of China's national industry. Since 1932, it has been a symbol of quality and craftsmanship, beloved by artists, students, and professionals alike.
Brand Story
Zhonghua originated in the 1930s, during the rise of China's national industry. In 1932, patriotic figures such as Wu Gengmei founded the China Standard National Goods Pencil Factory in Shanghai, aiming to break the monopoly of foreign pencils and produce Chinese-made pencils. In 1935, the factory officially started production, launching the 'Ding' brand pencils. In 1950, after public-private partnership, it was renamed China Pencil Company and registered the 'Zhonghua' trademark. By 1954, Zhonghua pencils had become a nationally renowned brand, with the '101' drawing pencil gaining great popularity. After the reform and opening-up, Zhonghua continued to innovate and expand its product line, becoming a benchmark in the stationery industry. Zhonghua has witnessed the struggle and rise of China's national industry, carrying the memories of generations, and stands as a proud national brand.
Signature Products
A classic drawing pencil with moderate lead hardness and smooth writing, beloved by artists and office workers. (2-5 RMB per pencil)
A daily writing pencil with an attached eraser, convenient and practical, a common choice for students and office use. (1-3 RMB per pencil)
Vivid colors and fine texture, suitable for painting and design. (10-30 RMB per box)
Stores & Addresses
Located in: Shanghai（上海）
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Cultural Note
The craftsmanship of Zhonghua pencils inherits traditional pen-making techniques, combined with modern technology, focusing on lead concentration, hardness, and writing smoothness. Its brand culture embodies the spirit of self-reliance and continuous improvement of the national industry, serving as a microcosm of the development history of Chinese stationery.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is a "China Time-Honored Brand" (中华老字号)?
A China Time-Honored Brand is a designation by China’s Ministry of Commerce for brands with a long history that inherit products, craftsmanship or services across generations and have operated continuously to the present.
When was Zhonghua founded?
Zhonghua was founded in 1932, originating in Shanghai, Shanghai, primarily in the Other field.
What is the signature product of Zhonghua?
Its signature product is Zhonghua 101 Drawing Pencil. See the "Signature / Buy Online" section on this page for more products and shopping links.
Where can I find the official list of China Time-Honored Brands?
You can log into the MOFCOM "China Time-Honored Brand Information Management System", or browse this site’s brand directory — we have profiled 1,451 time-honored brands.
Sources / References
Brand fundamentals (founding year, heritage level, recognition batch) follow official sources such as the MOFCOM time-honored brand list. Story and encyclopedia: