TOYMAKERS LOOK TO THE PAST TO BUILD BUSINESS

Traditional elements used to manufacture range of playtime bricks

Chinese companies making toy bricks are turning to traditional building methods to compete with international rivals such as Lego.

Domestic enterprises aim to develop such bricks by seeking inspiration from ancient Chinese culture to meet demand in a booming market.

Liu Wenhui, founder of Wanfeng Bricks, which is based in Hangzhou, capital of Zhejiang province, said developing toy bricks based on the mortise-and-tenon construction method perfectly showcases the unique architectural features of ancient Chinese buildings, which have symbolized the nation throughout its 5,000-year history.