Wuxi launches first bonded repair project outside special customs zone

An ultrasound probe bonded refurbishment line at GE HealthCare Wuxi. [Photo/WeChat account: xinwu_wx]

Wuxi has taken another step toward becoming a global hub for high-end equipment servicing, as the city's first bonded repair project outside a special customs supervision zone entered trial operation this month.

On July 2, a shipment of 33 medical ultrasound probes arrived at Wuxi Shuofang Airport. After completing customs clearance, the equipment was transported to GE HealthCare's Wuxi base for repair.

The new model enables companies to integrate manufacturing and global repair services at a single production base. By allowing imported products to be repaired without entering the domestic market, the policy helps reduce operating costs, improve efficiency and strengthen companies' competitiveness in the global after-sales service market.

The bonded repair business is already gaining momentum across Wuxi Hi-Tech District Comprehensive Bonded Zone. During the first five months of the year, the import and export value of the bonded repair business reached 320 million yuan (about $47 million), up 160 percent year-on-year.

Luckyford Import and Export in Wuxi Hi-Tech District Comprehensive Bonded Zone. [Photo/WeChat account: xinwu_wx]

Recently, 78 optical fiber routers were shipped into the bonded zone for repair at a local company. The project represents the zone's first router repair business since China expanded its catalog of products eligible for bonded repair.

With previous policy restrictions removed, the company quickly secured new repair orders from customers in Southeast Asia and Europe. Its general manager expects the overall business performance to grow by around 20 percent in 2026.

Another major beneficiary is Jabil Circuit, which generates annual bonded repair revenue of between 30 million and 40 million yuan by servicing communications equipment exported mainly to Europe and the Middle East.