Lu Zhongfang is one of China’s most remarkable self-made billionaires, known for her unexpected rise from factory worker to education investor. The journey of Lu Zhongfang began after she retired from a pesticides plant in Jilin Province in 1993. With determination and a willingness to embrace new opportunities, she invested in the early foundations of Offcn in 1999. Her decision would later transform her into a prominent figure in China’s booming education technology landscape.
Building Offcn Into a National Test Prep Leader
Offcn Education Technology started humbly but expanded rapidly as China’s demand for exam preparation soared. The company became a trusted brand for civil service exam training, professional certification programs, and public sector employment test prep. Its rapid growth attracted national attention and significant investor interest. Offcn’s backdoor listing on the Shenzhen Stock Exchange in 2019 marked a major milestone, cementing its status as a dominant force in China’s education industry. Throughout this rise, Lu’s early support and long-term confidence in the business proved essential to its success.
Net Worth and Growing Family Influence
Lu Zhongfang reached a net worth of $1 billion in 2025, reflecting her early vision and the strong performance of Offcn. Her son, Liu Yongxin, now serves as chairman and is also a billionaire, making the family one of the most influential in China’s education sector. Their combined presence has helped Offcn maintain stability during industry reforms and shifting regulatory conditions.
Early Life, Background, and Personal Profile
Born and raised in northern China, Lu lived a modest life before entering business. Her retirement in 1993 marked a turning point, as she sought opportunities beyond factory work. With discipline and long-term thinking, she supported Offcn during its early struggles and eventual rise. Her story is widely seen as a powerful example of self-made success within China’s older generation of entrepreneurs.
Leadership Summary Table
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Industry | Education & Test Preparation |
| Major Company | Offcn Education Technology |
| Key Milestone | Shenzhen Stock Exchange listing, 2019 |
| Residence | Tonghua, China |
| Citizenship | China |
| Family | Son Liu Yongxin (Chairman, billionaire) |
A Quiet Billionaire With Lasting Impact
Lu Zhongfang keeps a low public profile, yet her influence on China’s education landscape is undeniable. Her story highlights the power of resilience, early investment, and trust in innovation. Through Offcn’s continued expansion and her family’s leadership, her legacy remains strong in one of China’s most competitive industries.
