Manufacturing becomes microfacturing as people grow desperate to make a living wage as seen through the lens of a Canadian.
China is expensive for the little guy. High MOQs, sanctions, tariffs make it difficult for a new single person business to get started. China does have inexpensive, innovative, small scale machines easily available. This makes manufacturing at home in small batches a viable option. We see this especially in the rise of freeze dries food items as freeze driers are available for under $2000. Dog collars and press-on-nails have also been very big in home/ garage based microfactories.
As living expenses skyrocket, remember lower inflation is still inflation, and wages stagnate or worse retirement accounts become nil. People are turning to side gigs during their 5-9 after their 9-5. Starting a small business is the best way to give yourself the opportunity of a better life. The best way to break money barriers is through business as shown by studying millionaires+ financials. The multimillionaires invest the majority of their money and time in business interests. Businesses can also be scaled beyond trading time for money.
Some notable improved machines include laser cutters, sticker printers, 3D printers including resin printers, magnet/ button makers, vending machines. Also, packaging specific machines allow the home business to have the same level of professionalism as any big business.