Suppliers in fast lane as China embraces winter sports

Anta Sports Products Ltd, China's biggest athletics apparel company, said it plans to launch its first snow sports product under its own brand this year - as the domestic skiing market and other winter activities are expected to be on track for a major boost.

The company said it would expand more in the high-end segment of the market, in line with the general consumer market shift toward premium brands in China.

"When a country get more developed economically, their consumers tend to go for high-end activities," said Robert Koepp, director of the consultancy, the Economist Corporate Network.