The spunmelt nonwoven equipment market is showing a visible rebound. Industry data reveals that in the first half of 2026, Hongda Research Institute saw new contracts surge 148.7% year-on-year, while backlog orders rose 86.4%. This growth far exceeds the average single-digit increase in the textile machinery sector, indicating that downstream investors' willingness to expand nonwoven production lines is being unleashed, and the equipment order cycle has turned before terminal demand.
Background
Behind the order surge is synchronized strength in domestic and overseas markets. Domestically, a Fujian project passed acceptance, Hebei project delivery made substantial progress, a Zhejiang project contract took effect, and new customer interest from Jiangsu is heating up. Overseas, installation and service for projects in Turkey and Poland are progressing efficiently, earning client recognition. This multi-point pattern shows that Chinese spunmelt equipment competitiveness is no longer solely price-based but is extending to delivery efficiency and after-sales capability.
Notably, the 86.4% growth in backlog orders means production capacity is locked for the next 12-18 months, signaling clear scheduling implications for upstream component suppliers and downstream users. For buyers, delivery times may lengthen, making early planning critical; for equipment makers, balancing order fulfillment with quality control will be the next test.
Industry Impact
Technological breakthroughs underpin the order growth. The ionic liquid solvent bamboo fiber project, after three years of R&D, has fully entered the pilot-scale engineering design phase, with 3D modeling and engineering design completed on schedule, and construction drawings planned for Q3. The industrialization of this route could open new raw material sources for regenerated cellulose fiber, reducing environmental pressure from traditional viscose processes, and potentially attracting brands seeking sustainable supply chains.
Meanwhile, the self-developed wide-width PE/PP bicomponent spunbond line has successfully completed trial production and achieved commercial delivery, with full performance compliance. Wide-width lines mean higher output per unit and lower energy costs, making their technological premium easier for downstream to accept amid rising labor costs. Multiple breakthroughs in specialty fiber spinning processes indicate deepening reserves in differentiated products, potentially replacing some imported high-end lines.
On the management front, the full implementation and optimization of SAP and BIP systems, along with the establishment or revision of 11 institutional rules, have significantly enhanced risk control and refined management. This reflects a shift among leading equipment companies from 'selling machines' to 'selling services and management', offering clients more stable delivery and transparent project progress.