Hezhou's economy has traditionally been based on agriculture and forestry, with specialties including tea, pomelos, chestnuts, and bamboo products. Zhaoping County is renowned for its organic tea, which has received national and international recognition. Tourism has become the fastest-growing sector since the 2000s, driven by Huangyao Ancient Town and Gupo Mountain, which together attract millions of visitors annually.
The city has also developed light manufacturing industries, including electronics assembly, food processing, and building materials. The hot springs resort and emerging wellness tourism sector represent new growth areas. Hezhou's strategic location at the intersection of Guangxi, Guangdong, and Hunan positions it well for continued tourism and logistics development.