Casualties reported after shoe factory fire in China’s Fujian, state media says
Fire in China’s Shoe Capital: Casualties Confirmed After Blaze
Emergency Response Continues as Rescue Operations Progress
Casualties reported after shoe factory fire in China’s Fujian province, according to state media reports. A major fire broke out at a footwear manufacturing plant in the city of Jinjiang on Thursday, leading to confirmed casualties and triggering an extensive emergency response. State broadcaster CCTV documented firefighters working to control the intensifying flames while simultaneously rescuing people trapped inside the burning building. The incident occurred around noon local time, equivalent to 0400 GMT, in this coastal industrial hub.
Early accounts suggest several workers managed to reach the rooftop as flames quickly spread through the lower floors. Television footage showed enormous fireballs rising from the multi-story facility, with thick black smoke billowing into the sky. The video clearly showed multiple figures visible on the upper level, surrounded by swirling smoke as they waited for rescue teams to arrive.
Firefighting efforts were still underway, although open flames had largely been extinguished by about 5:40 p.m. (0940 GMT), a local firefighting official told CCTV.
Massive Mobilization of Resources
The scale of the emergency operation reflected the seriousness of the situation. Local authorities deployed significant resources to manage the crisis, sending 183 personnel and 35 emergency vehicles to the site. Officials confirmed that the fire originated on the ground floor of the manufacturing building, where various materials were stored.
The contents of the building contributed significantly to how quickly the fire spread. Shoe-making supplies, including adhesives and synthetic materials, proved highly flammable, allowing flames to move rapidly through the structure. This mix of combustible items created dangerous conditions for everyone inside the facility.
Chemical Effects and Health Impacts
Beyond the immediate fire damage, burning materials created additional problems. CCTV noted that the chemical makeup of the shoe-making supplies and adhesives produced a strong, pungent smell throughout the area. This odor caused eye irritation for people nearby, adding to the challenges faced during the emergency response.
While officials have not yet released exact figures for deaths and injuries, they confirmed that casualties were among those affected. Rescue teams continue searching the building to ensure every person has been found and brought to safety.
Jinjiang’s Role in Global Footwear Production
The location of this incident carries special meaning given Jinjiang’s prominence in the footwear industry. Located on the coast of Fujian province, this city is known as China’s shoe capital because of its large manufacturing sector. Thousands of companies operating in the area focus on producing footwear and clothing, forming a strong industrial network.
The economic significance of Jinjiang’s shoe industry is substantial. Government data shows that manufacturers in the city produced over 1.2 billion pairs of shoes in 2024. This production volume accounts for roughly 20 percent of global shoe output, highlighting the city’s importance in worldwide supply chains.
As officials investigate what caused the fire, local residents and industry representatives are working to support those impacted by the disaster. Complete details about the damage and final casualty numbers are expected to emerge as rescue and recovery work continues in the days ahead.
