#4: Qiaotou, China: The Button Capital of the World
The town of Qiaotou in Zhejiang province produces an astonishing share of the world’s buttons. Factories here manufacture billions each year in countless shapes, sizes, and materials. Clothing brands across the globe rely on this region for fast, cost-effective production. Even as fashion trends shift, Qiaotou’s output remains a quiet but essential part of the garment industry.

