The Yao ethnic group's traditional costumes have become popular products in the market, generating income increases of 4,000 yuan ($605.25) to 10,000 yuan per capita annually in Hezhou, South China's Guangxi Zhuang autonomous region.

Inheritors of Yao costume-making techniques have made many innovations to develop about 100 new styles in order to meet market demands and revive the traditional costumes, which were listed as a national intangible cultural heritage in 2006.

Over 600 employment positions doing needlework at home have been created due to the development of this industry.