A massive explosion at a fireworks factory in China’s Hunan province has left at least 21 people dead and 61 others injured, according to state media reports.
The blast occurred on Monday at around 4.40pm local time in Changsha, the provincial capital and a major hub for fireworks manufacturing. Reports from CCTV and Xinhua confirmed the incident, which sent thick plumes of smoke into the sky and caused significant structural damage to the site.
Images circulating on Chinese social media showed collapsed buildings and debris scattered across the factory area. However, Reuters noted that it was unable to independently verify the footage.
Emergency response teams, including nearly 500 firefighters, rescue personnel, and medical staff, were deployed to the scene. The South China Morning Post reported that large-scale rescue operations were immediately launched following the explosion.
The blast reportedly occurred at the Huasheng Fireworks Manufacturing and Display Company. Authorities have yet to confirm the cause of the explosion, and efforts are ongoing to assess the full extent of the damage.
Chinese President Xi Jinping has called for a swift and thorough investigation into the incident, urging officials to determine the cause and ensure strict accountability. State media Xinhua reported that Xi also emphasised the need to strengthen safety measures in high-risk industries.
He further instructed authorities to improve risk monitoring, enhance hazard prevention systems, and reinforce public safety standards to protect lives and property.
China remains one of the world’s largest producers and exporters of fireworks, accounting for more than two-thirds of global sales, with exports valued at approximately $1.14 billion last year, according to economic data.
