The 2026 FIFA World Cup isn't just a celebration for soccer fans. It's also a huge global business opportunity. In Yiwu, China's small-commodities hub, also called the "world's supermarket," businesses have been preparing for the tournament for more than a year. They are supplying everything from jerseys and flags to AI-powered toys and customized fan merchandise. According to the Yiwu Sporting Goods Association, Yiwu-made products account for nearly 70% of the entire World Cup merchandise market in 2026. This story goes beyond World Cup souvenirs. It offers a glimpse into how Chinese manufacturers are moving up the value chain and leveraging technology to remain competitive globally.