Rita Bourtsev wants to reintroduce the craftsmanship and heritage of China-made porcelain to the world.

She is a Director at Kaolin Surfaces, the global export arm and architectural brand of Guanxing Ceramics, a Chinese manufacturer of porcelain tiles owned by her family.

The tile-maker emphasises artistry, state-of-the-art production and a commitment to sustainability in its marketing.

“We are challenging global perceptions of Foshan-made porcelain, redefining excellence through innovation and groundbreaking collaborations with world-class designers,” Ms Bourtsev says.

Guanxing Ceramics was established in 1995 in Foshan in China’s Guangdong Province, a region with a long history of porcelain production stretching back to the Tang Dynasty, more than a thousand years ago.

Kaolin Surfaces takes its name from kaolin clay, the original material first used to make porcelain in China that remains popular today.

Hong Kong connects the world

Ms Bourtsev, who is based in Australia, set up Kaolin Surfaces in Sydney in 2021 with her husband Anton Bourtsev.

In July 2024, they opened an office in Hong Kong to serve as a launchpad for Kaolin Surfaces’ global ambitions.

Outside Mainland China, their current customers are mainly from Australia and ASEAN markets as well as Hong Kong. Interest from Southeast Asia and the Middle East is notably picking up.

“As a second-generation GBA manufacturer, I see Hong Kong not just as a business hub, but as a cultural ally,” Ms Bourtsev explains.

“Together, we’re redefining what Made in China means – quality, sustainability and storytelling that connects East and West.”

She picked Hong Kong to lead Kaolin Surfaces’ international expansion after attending the Hong Kong Forum – an annual gathering for Hong Kong business associations from around the world – in 2023, as a member of the New South Wales chapter of the Hong Kong-Australia Business Association.

The Hong Kong Forum is organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC).

Ms Bourtsev also took part in a Hong Kong business mission to Qatar and the United Arab Emirates last December, also organised by the HKTDC, which helped open doors and opportunities in the Middle East.

She rejoined the Hong Kong Forum last year, valuing the insights, networking opportunities and access to Hong Kong’s business ecosystem the Forum provides.

“The Forum is an exceptional platform for anyone looking to do business in Hong Kong or use it as a gateway to China and Asia,” Ms Bourtsev remarks.

“Hong Kong is more than just a city – it’s a global business platform that connects the world.”

Porcelain becomes more popular

Since setting up in Hong Kong, Kaolin Surfaces has engaged with major property developers, such as Far East Consortium and Hang Lung Properties, as well as internationally renowned architectural offices, including Aedas, André Fu and Zaha Hadid.

New production techniques that can enhance porcelain’s versatility and durability have helped make porcelain tiles more popular among architects and designers, as a more sustainable alternative to marble.

Sustainability also helps set Kaolin Surfaces apart from its competitors. Its tiles have secured CIC Platinum Certification in Hong Kong, the highest level possible, as well as Global GreenTag certification, which is recognised in more than 70 countries worldwide.

One major challenge is contending with anti-dumping tariffs imposed by several countries on Chinese porcelain tiles, despite Kaolin Surfaces operating in the premium segment.

Traditionally, Italian brands have dominated the market for high-end tiles.

This is where Ms Bourtsev wants to compete, reclaiming China’s status as a porcelain innovator and leader.

“Our main priority is to establish ourselves as a brand on a global stage.”