With the continuous expansion of pet ownership in China, the pet economy has demonstrated vigorous growth momentum, attracting increasing numbers of entrepreneurs and investors to enter this industry. Particularly in recent years, the registration numbers of pet food, supplies, and service-related enterprises have experienced exponential growth.

Growth Trends of Pet-Related Enterprises

In terms of enterprise volume, authoritative data from Qichacha reveals there are currently approximately 4.5 million operating pet-related businesses in China. This growth trajectory is closely correlated with rising consumer demand and capital influx. A year-by-year breakdown shows: 

2021: The number surpassed 1 million for the first time, reaching 1.425 million.

2022: Surpassed 2 million, reaching 2.091 million

2023: Surpassed 3 million, reaching 3.409 million

2024: Surpassed 4 million, reaching 4.192 million

Our analysis reveals a notable pattern: From 2021 to 2024, the annual increment of pet-related enterprises consistently reached new milestones each year. Particularly between 2022-2023, the sector saw an exceptional surge of 1.318 million new registrations. As for 2025 projections, breaching the 5-million threshold appears increasingly plausible based on current trajectories.

From a registration volume perspective, as of April 25, China has registered a total of 462,000 pet-related enterprises.

In terms of growth rate, since 2020, the registration volume of pet-related enterprises in China has exhibited rapid expansion. Notably, 2021 saw a remarkable year-on-year surge of 144.7%, reaching 800,000 new registrations—the peak growth rate in recent years.

Distribution of Newly Established Enterprises

From the perspective of establishment duration, nearly 80% of pet-related enterprises in China were founded within the past three years. As of April 25, the specific data distribution is as follows:

The enterprise age distribution is as follows:

0-1 year: 32.8%

1-3 years: 44.9%

3-5 years: 13.7%

5-10 years: 6.6%

10+ years: 1.9%

The data reveals that 77.7% of pet-related enterprises were established within the past three years, with the 1-3 year cohort (44.9%) representing the largest segment, followed closely by startups under one year old (32.8%). In stark contrast, businesses operating over a decade account for merely 1.9%, highlighting both the industry's youthful dynamism and high attrition rates.

From an industry distribution perspective, the wholesale and retail sector dominates, with detailed breakdown as follows:

Wholesale & Retail Trade: 3.743 million (83.7%)

Scientific Research & Technical Services: 168,000 (3.8%)

Resident Services, Repair & Maintenance: 160,000 (3.6%)

Information Technology Services: 114,000 (2.5%)

Leasing & Business Services: 98,000 (2.1%)

Geographical disparities are evident, with Hainan Province emerging as a new growth hotspot due to preferential policies (e.g., anticipated island-wide customs closure), now hosting over 1 million pet-related enterprises—nearly a quarter of the national total. Meanwhile, economically advanced provinces like Guangdong, Zhejiang, and Jiangsu continue to concentrate substantial industry clusters.

The pet services sector has experienced a surge in new enterprises, with over 70% established within the past three years. As of early January 2025, the enterprise age distribution is as follows:

0-1 year: 30.97%

1-3 years: 43.50%

3-5 years: 16.40%

5-10 years: 6.90%

10+ years: 2.23%

Industry Challenges and Growth Opportunities

The data reflects rapid industry expansion and high market vitality, yet also intensifying competition. Key trends emerge:

1. Evolving Consumer Demand

Nutrition: Growing focus on palatability, user reviews, traceable ingredients, and functional benefits

Products: Smart pet tech shows strong potential (health monitoring, GPS tracking, social interaction)

Services: Booming demand for grooming, training, and boarding with premium customization

2. Growth Opportunities

Untapped Markets: 10% pet ownership penetration signals substantial growth potential

Digital Channels: E-commerce/livestreaming dominate sales, enabling local brands to leapfrog via online strategies

Conclusion

China's pet economy maintains robust growth, requiring breakthroughs in: Technological innovation，Service standardization，Sustainable branding.

Source: Global Pet Industry Overseas Insights (Republished with authorization. Views expressed belong to original authors.)