The southern city of Shenzhen is set to become home to the world’s largest 3D printer manufacturing complex, with an expected annual output of over 3 million units.
A subsidiary of a prominent 3D printing startup recently purchased land in the Guangming district of Shenzhen for approximately 141.2 million yuan (about $20.8 million), where the manufacturing hub will be developed, according to a statement from local authorities on social media.
The site spans roughly 83,591 square meters, with a planned total construction area of around 376,158 square meters. The development will feature state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities, as well as office and residential spaces. Once completed, the complex will facilitate research, development, and production of complete 3D printing systems, core components, and printing materials.
Once operational, the facility is projected to generate an average annual revenue of at least 4.5 billion yuan (approximately $663 million) within five years. It is also expected to draw a sizable workforce of 3D printing specialists, fostering a regional talent pool for the industry.
3D printers create tangible objects from digital 3D models. Unlike traditional manufacturing, which involves material removal, 3D printing adds successive layers of melted plastic or resin to build an object.
Shenzhen stands out as a global leader in advanced hardware manufacturing, especially in sectors like consumer electronics, robotics, drones, and additive manufacturing.
The startup behind the project was founded in 2020 and quickly rose to prominence as a leading producer of consumer 3D printers. As of last month, the company had sold more than 100 million units worldwide. Besides manufacturing printers, it also produces and markets 3D printing consumables and manages the MakerWorld community for 3D printing enthusiasts.
In February, the company entered into a framework agreement with the Guangming district to develop this major manufacturing base. Even before that, it had started operating a transitional production line within the district.