Shaping Tomorrow’s Tech — An Interview with Hu Yong, General Manager of Zico Electronics

 

Zico Electronics

 

Huaqiangbei, nestled in Shenzhen’s Futian District, stands as one of China’s premier electronics hubs, rivaling Beijing’s Zhongguancun. Celebrated worldwide as the iconic “Electronics Street,” it has flourished with the guidance of experts like Mr. Song Shiqiang, a respected authority on its market dynamics. To bridge industry theory with real-world insight, reporters from Kinghelm (www.kinghelm.net) ventured into Huaqiangbei’s bustling markets to meet Mr. Hu Yong — General Manager of Shenzhen Zico Electronics Co., Ltd. With over 20 years of hands-on experience in Huaqiangbei, Mr. Hu has become a fixture in its vibrant electronics ecosystem, offering invaluable perspectives shaped by decades on the frontlines of China’s tech trade.

Mr. Hu Yong

Affectionately known as "Brother Yong," Mr. Hu Yong, General Manager of Shenzhen Zico Electronics Co., Ltd., made his way to Shenzhen in 2005 — a determined entrepreneur from Sichuan, much like his long-time friend, Mr. Song Shiqiang.

Back in 2008, Ms. Zhao Shaoyan, a native of Chaozhou, boldly rented a tiny one-meter counter in the famed New Asia Electronics Market Phase I — part of Huaqiangbei’s legendary "one-meter counter" phenomenon. With no customers, contacts, or resources at the start, she relied on relentless cold calls and door-to-door sample deliveries. After six relentless months, the first few orders arrived, marking her breakthrough in the fiercely competitive market. At that time, Hu Yong and Shaoyan were simply outdoor enthusiasts, hiking companions united by a shared passion for nature and adventure — unaware they would one day navigate the electronics industry together.

Mr. Hu Yong

In 2009, as New Asia Electronics Market Phase II opened its doors, Zico Electronics upgraded to a slightly larger, dedicated counter — marking the beginning of a steady rise. By the end of that year, Hu Yong and Shaoyan’s bond, once rooted in friendship and shared ambition, blossomed into marriage. Together, they navigated the fast-paced world of Huaqiangbei, growing from a modest market stall to independent shops in Huaqiang Electronics City, then to offices in Baohua Building, moving to Century Tower’s 19th floor in 2021, and finally settling into their current headquarters on the 5th floor of Zhifangzhou in July 2024.

Today, Shenzhen Zico Electronics Co., Ltd. stands as a trusted name in the MCU (Microcontroller Unit) industry, with over a decade of professional expertise. The company proudly represents four major MCU brands: Shenzhen Zhongwei, Taiwan’s Padauk, Elan, and Ninejade. Backed by a team of seasoned engineers, Zico provides comprehensive, full-cycle technical support — from product selection and development to programming and final delivery.

Their versatile portfolio of 8-bit and 32-bit MCUs powers a wide array of applications: from consumer electronics like beauty devices, pet accessories, electric toothbrushes, fans, and smart toys, to lighting solutions such as LED controllers, RGB lights, stage effects, and festive decor. The company also serves small home appliances, including air fryers, kettles, coffee makers, blenders, and robot vacuums, as well as medical devices, sensors, power adapters, remote controls, and more — solidifying its reputation as a reliable partner in embedded technology.

 

 

Programming Room at Zico Electronics R&D Department

 

When asked how a company can endure in the fiercely competitive MCU industry, Hu Yong shared his philosophy:

“Zico has thrived for over a decade because we grow together with our clients. It’s about building trust and consistently delivering value. Whether we’re working with OEMs, ODMs, solution providers, or handling bespoke projects, we treat every partner with equal care and attention. Our business isn’t about quick wins — it’s about long-term relationships.”

Today, Zico serves over 5,000 customers worldwide, with some partnerships lasting more than 15 years. “Success comes one step at a time,” Hu says. “Every day, our team is programming, packaging, and shipping MCUs across the country. Behind every box isn’t just a product — it’s someone’s business, someone’s project, and the trust they’ve placed in us. That’s what drives us.”

 

 

Mr. Hu Yong Explains Zico Electronics’ Competitive Edge

 

“Reputation matters more than trophies,” affirms Hu Yong — a principle that has anchored Zico’s steady growth in a highly competitive industry. With a firm commitment to integrity, supplier partnerships, and ethical business practices, he ensures every product that leaves Zico is authentic, reliable, and worthy of client trust.

Hu has adopted a “small but excellent” strategy, focusing on precision over scale, and expanding Zico’s presence through industry forums and engaging original content on the company’s video platform, Shenzhen Zico Electronics. Believing that talent drives progress, he’s built a team called Ambitious Future Bosses, cultivating creativity, ownership, and long-term vision.

Outside the office, Hu is a passionate traveler, having driven across Tibet, Xinjiang, Sichuan, Shaanxi, and Shanghai — building friendships, partnerships, and a network of mutual support along the way.

The team at Kinghelm sends their warmest wishes to Mr. Hu Yong, his wife, and the Zico Electronics family. May they continue to embody Huaqiangbei’s enterprising spirit — persevering, innovating, and lighting the way for a brighter future for their people and the industry.

Mr. Hu Yong’s Office