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China's golfing industry began finding its legs beginning in 1984. Now, after 20 years' development, the industry might be referred to as a "toddler."
But while few doubt that China will become one of the world's biggest golfing markets, questions are being asked. Is golf a luxury sport for the rich and famous only? Or, can space be found for expansion of the sport among the common population? And what about environmental and land-use questions that sometime plague the sport?
The toddler sport has developed rapidly, especially during the past few years. According to publicly available statistics, there are about 200 golf courses and clubs in China serving XX amateur golfers, an increase of between 20 percent and 30 percent per year.
As China's economy has mushroomed, the development of golf has followed suit with golf sports promotions, golf training courses, golf match organizations and golf merchandise manufacturing. This demonstrates the commercial business and marketing potential of the Chinese golf industry.
During the past 10 years, China has grown to become one of the world's most active golfing locales. In 2004, several international golf tournaments were held in China, including PGA European Tour and Asian PGA Tour events. Famous enterprises constantly involved in golf tournaments included Volvo, BMW, and TCL. This means that competitive levels and the standing of golf tournaments in China have improved. This activity has been noticed by the industry's investors, and more international golf companies have begun to enter the China market. A report from Nike, the sports clothing and equipment manufacturer, indicates that golf consumption in China rivals that of the European market.