Empowered by science and technology, Ulanqab’s “native products” embark on a “foreign-style” road

On October 22, 2023, the China News Service reported on the recent developments in Ulanqab City, Inner Mongolia, showcasing how technology is empowering local specialty products to reach new heights. A correspondent from China News Service, Zhang Linhu, visited the area to observe how local agricultural products are gaining international attention.

As deep autumn sets in, Ulanqab is buzzing with the joy of harvest. Innovative practices such as “clean vegetables going to Beijing” and the expansion of potato markets reflect a vibrant agricultural sector.

At the Hongfu Agricultural Industrial Park in Nandian Village, right in the heart of Chayouqian Banner, the advanced smart greenhouses stand out. Upon entering the park and passing through a disinfection room, visitors are greeted by a warm haven for tomatoes, which hang resplendently from the vines, thriving in the controlled environment created by the greenhouses.

The park is equipped with state-of-the-art greenhouse construction technologies and smart management systems, including automated harvesting vehicles. Various sensors monitor temperature, humidity, and CO2 levels, ensuring optimal growing conditions. “This smart agricultural model increases yields by nearly tenfold compared to traditional greenhouses,” said Gu Yan, the park’s manager. “We produce up to 35 tons of tomatoes daily, with an annual yield of 2,000 tons per greenhouse, all promptly shipped to cities like Beijing to meet consumer demand.”

Gu added that the tomatoes produced here are now exempt from inspections in numerous renowned supermarkets, reaching over 3,600 major grocery chains across 58 cities in China.

Similarly, the Chayouqian Strawberry Base is a marvel of modern agriculture, using a fully enclosed, year-round vertical farming system that breaks traditional seasonal limitations. This setup allows for a stable supply of strawberries throughout the year, and with integrated water and fertilizer systems combined with drip irrigation, it effectively conserves water, embodying eco-friendly practices.

Located just 240 kilometers from Beijing, Xihe County within Ulanqab City is transforming its vegetable cultivation landscape. The area, known for its “clean vegetables going to Beijing” initiative, boasts 10.2 million mu of vegetable farming, comprising 50 varieties across 16 categories. Remarkably, 300,000 tons of these vegetables are transported annually to the Beijing market.

In recent years, Ulanqab has integrated modern agricultural technologies to enhance the preservation and utilization of germplasm resources, innovation in breeding, and establishment of seed production bases, all while accelerating the adoption of high-quality agricultural techniques.

Taking potatoes as an example, Ulanqab has a rich history of potato cultivation, now making it a national hub for seed, commercial, and processing varieties. Its advanced laboratory facilities and comprehensive infrastructure have enabled a 100% disease-free seed potato coverage rate. Additionally, 37 potato processing companies have set up shop here, establishing Ulanqab as China’s largest potato processing center for both fries and starch.

Walking through Dongliang Street in the Siziwang Banner, you’ll find bustling shops filled with the mouthwatering aromas of traditional lamb offal dishes. The popularity of these meals reflects the town’s rich culinary culture.

Since hosting the Ulanqab Siziwang Lamb Offal Festival in 2024, Dongliang Street has seen an explosion in foot traffic, ingredient procurement, and overall sales. “After the festival, more people are discovering our lamb offal, and out-of-town orders have increased significantly,” stated Cui Yunshuan, a shop owner.

The main ingredient for Dongliang offal comes from the high-quality lamb produced in Siziwang Banner. Recent efforts have focused on enhancing livestock farming practices, ensuring a steady supply of fresh ingredients for this delicious dish.

At the production facility of the Siziwang Banner Ethnic Trading Co., dual-line slaughtering and processing operations are in full swing. The firm boasts the nation’s first intelligent lamb offal production line, generating an annual output value of 150 million yuan. At a recent trade conference, they secured 180 million yuan in contracts for lamb offal, sheep, and cattle.

This past summer was not just about the lamb offal festival; it also included events like the Fengzhen Mooncake Festival and the Zuoqi Smoked Chicken Cultural Festival, highlighting local culinary traditions that draw attention from both domestic and international visitors.

Ulanqab’s commitment to deep processing of agricultural products has led to the development of the “Original Flavor Ulanqab” regional brand, aiming to establish itself as a key production base for agricultural goods in the nation. Currently, 115 enterprises are authorized under the “Original Flavor Ulanqab” brand, which covers over 500 distinct products across six key industries, boasting a brand value exceeding 16.7 billion yuan.

Looking forward, Ulanqab is dedicated to pursuing sustainable agricultural practices that promote economic prosperity, industrial growth, and a healthy ecosystem.