Healthy food industry thrives in Xinghua
Xinghua is a hub for healthy food industry. [Photo/WeChat account: tzfabu]
With 26 percent of its area covered by water and an ecological index ranking among the best in Taizhou and Jiangsu, Xinghua has become a fertile ground for high-quality agricultural products. The city is home to nine national geographical indication products, including Xinghua rice, hairy crabs, freshwater prawns, and scallions.
In recent years, Xinghua has drawn over 100 top healthy food companies, creating an industry chain covering nine key sectors: seasonings, dehydrated vegetables, hotpot ingredients, rice and flour products, dairy and meat items, frozen convenience foods, ready-to-eat meals, and catering supplies. By 2024, the city's healthy food industry surpassed an output value of 30 billion yuan ($4.21 billion).
A food production workshop in Xinghua. [Photo/WeChat account: tzfabu]
The Xinghua Economic Development Zone has emerged as the main hub for healthy food production. It has planned an 8-square-kilometer cluster for the seasoning industry, supported by 1 million square meters of standard workshops.
Within this zone, China Food Valley Area A was finalized and handed over in March 2021, specializing in compound seasonings, functional foods, and prepared dishes. Construction of Area B started in April 2022, further propelling the city's efforts to establish itself as a national center for the healthy food industry.
Various areas of the city have cultivated unique strengths. Xingdong town and Duotian subdistrict are known for dehydration of fruits and vegetables, whereas Daiyao town emphasizes rice processing. Together, these clusters contribute to a growingly competitive regional industry.
Xinghua is now Asia's leading hub for processing, export, and distribution of dehydrated vegetables. In 2024, the sector achieved sales of 5.3 billion yuan, representing over 42 percent of China's total and more than 62 percent of Jiangsu's vegetable exports.
Xinghua in Taizhou, Jiangsu. [Photo/WeChat account: tzfabu]
