Ying was born in Hong Kong. His father and his family had originated from Wenchang, Hainan, China. He began his career as a laborer in the garment factory, and later dealt with clients such as Esprit. Esprit later hired Ying as its sole sourcing agent in 1970. Esprit Far East Group began operating in the 1970s when its founders Susie and Douglas Tompkins began doing business with Ying.
