Spring has arrived, and with it comes the bustling activity of tea farmers and tea factories across various regions in China. Xinhua News Agency reporters recently visited Hubei, Anhui, Zhejiang, and other places to experience the spring tea picking season and observe the marketing strategies in place.
In Anhui’s Qimen County, tea farmer Hu Xiuchuan is busy picking spring buds to produce Keemun black tea. The season typically runs from March to April, with farmers working diligently from sunrise to sunset. The Tea Research Institute of the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences noted that the rising temperatures have accelerated tea growth, leading to an earlier and abundant harvest this year.
In Hubei, tea farmer Yang Shengfang shared her joy in the record-high prices her family’s vine tea buds are fetching this year. The increase in income is a welcomed boost to many farmers in the region. Similarly, the Daohe Teng Tea Processing Factory in Laifeng County is experiencing a surge in demand for their tea products, with prices soaring compared to previous years.
In Zhejiang’s Hangzhou, the Jingshan Zen Tea Spring Tea Mining Ceremony highlighted the importance of tea culture and direct support for local tea farmers. The event showcased the innovative products being developed in the region, such as osmanthus black tea and herbal tea.
Across various regions, efforts to strengthen the tea industry through technological advancements and brand development are evident. Qimen County in Anhui is investing in smart tea gardens and research initiatives to improve tea quality and production. Meanwhile, Zhejiang’s Jingshan Tea Enterprises continue to innovate with new products and brand-building strategies to elevate the value of their teas.
As the tea industry evolves, experts like Chen Fuqiao emphasize the importance of highlighting regional characteristics and utilizing digital technologies in brand building. By creating distinct products and promoting the unique qualities of their teas, farmers and tea companies are not only boosting their incomes but also spreading the love for Chinese tea worldwide.