A villager lays freshly woven willow products out to dry in Linshu on June 10. [Photo provided by Liang Ben/For China Daily]

"Today, handmade willow crafts are used in homes around the world, bringing natural texture and warmth to gardens, living rooms and studies," Zhang says.

One of the company's enduring bestsellers is a fan-shaped firewood basket woven from unpeeled and white willow.

"This product is highly versatile. It works equally well for storing firewood by the fireplace, organizing garden tools or displaying fruit and flowers, which explains its lasting appeal," he says.

The company is also developing a woven willow or rattan sleeve that fits around a metal ice bucket, combining practicality with natural style.

"We believe it will become another popular product," Zhang says.

He is equally optimistic about China's domestic market. "Willow weaving reflects a natural, low-carbon and environmentally friendly lifestyle, which increasingly resonates with consumers," he says.

Cao Jiayue contributed to this story.