Though the warm, coastal eastern province of Fujian seems an odd fit for ice and snow sports, many of its state-of-the-art technologies are being used at the ongoing Beijing 2022 Winter Olympics.

Hand-made porcelain versions of Bing Dwen Dwen and Shuey Rhon Rhon, mascots for the Games, are from Dehua county of Quanzhou and have been selling out in droves. Dehua, now a major porcelain manufacturer, began exporting porcelain products along the maritime Silk Road as early as the Song Dynasty (960-1279).

Racing suits for Chinese short-track speed skating athletes, featuring advanced designs to reduce air drag and cut weight, helped Team China win its first gold medal of the Games on Feb 5.

The producer of the suits, Fujian-based athletic wear giant Anta Sports, provides equipment for 12 teams for Chinese athletes in 15 events, including speed skating and skeleton. The company is also a Beijing 2022 sponsor.