Billionaire Profile
Zhang Congyuan
Global Rank
#356

Image: Public domain | via Wikimedia Commons

Zhang Congyuan

CEO, Huali Industrial Group
TW
Real-Time Net Worth
$8.3B
As of December 2025
Age
77
Source
Shoes
Industry
fashion-retail
Citizenship
TW

Biography

Zhang Congyuan, born in Taiwan in 1948, is the founder of Huali Industrial Group, a leading global footwear manufacturer. Starting his career in a women's shoe factory, he leveraged his experience to establish his own sneaker manufacturing business in the 1980s. Through strategic expansion and partnerships, his company produces shoes for major brands like Nike and Puma. His entrepreneurial acumen has made him one of Taiwan's wealthiest individuals, with a net worth primarily derived from his substantial ownership in Huali Industrial. As of June 2025, his net worth is estimated at $8.3 billion, and he is often referred to as the "Shoe King" of Taiwan.

Wealth Over Time

In-Depth Profile

Early Life

Zhang Congyuan was born in 1948 in a rural area of Taiwan. He came from a farming family and displayed a strong work ethic from an early age. After graduating from a junior agricultural college, Zhang began his career in the footwear industry.

Rise to Success

Zhang started working in a women's shoe factory, gaining valuable experience in the trade. In the 1980s, he established his own sneaker manufacturing business. Initially, he faced financial constraints and set up his first factory on rented land within a pig farm. Despite these humble beginnings, he focused on producing quality footwear, which attracted clients and helped his business grow. Zhang expanded operations beyond Taiwan, establishing factories in Guangdong, China, and later in Vietnam. In 2004, he founded Huali Industrial Group Co., Ltd., which became one of the world's leading sports footwear manufacturers.

Key Business Strategies

A key aspect of Zhang's success was his ability to scale operations and secure partnerships with leading global brands. Huali Industrial became a key supplier for major international brands, including Nike, Puma, UGG, Vans, Converse, and Under Armour. He also expanded production to multiple countries, including China, Indonesia, Vietnam, Dominica, and Myanmar, to meet global demand. He adhered to the “small profit but fast turnover” marketing method and specialized in manufacturing shoes for major international brands.

Philanthropy

Information about Zhang Congyuan's specific philanthropic endeavors is limited; however, his company has implemented sustainable development strategies.

Career Milestones

1948

Born

Born in a farming family in Taiwan.

1980s

Established First Factory

Zhang established his first shoe factory.

2004

Founded Huali Industrial Group

Zhang founded Huali Industrial Group.

2021

Huali Industrial IPO

Huali Industrial went public on the Shenzhen Stock Exchange.

Business Philosophy & Leadership

Notable Quotes

""I am a boring person, he said. I'm just going to continue to do the things I'm good at”."

Leadership Principles

Passion, integrity and respect

These are integral parts of Zhang’s management style, which he shares with his employees, partners, and customers.