Wuzhishan prospers from developing tea industry

Wuzhishan has over 10 tea gardens of different sizes, with their total cultivated area reaching more than 8,500 mu (566.67 hectares). [Photo/hinews.cn]

Wuzhishan, located in the middle mountainous area of Hainan province, has abundant wild tea trees resources and enjoys a longstanding history in producing tea.

Currently, Wuzhishan has over 10 tea gardens of different sizes, with their total cultivated area reaching more than 8,500 mu (566.67 hectares), bringing economic benefits to more than 1,000 low income households.

The black tea of Wuzhishan has enjoyed a good reputation both inside and outside the province, especially when it gained the national geographical indication recognition in 2015. The local tea industry has contributed greatly to poverty alleviation efforts, as well as the integration between agriculture and tourism.

In the past two decades, Wuzhishan has been insisting on the ecological planting of tea trees, as well as using unique baking and frying techniques to give its tea a distinctive flavor. 

"Only by upgrading picking and production techniques can we achieve better quality and promote our brands," said a person in charge of the local agriculture and rural bureau. Various standards in tea production processes, such as processing, storage, transportation, and packaging have been established to ensure quality.

In addition, Wuzhishan has integrated its tea industry with local tourism. The picturesque tea gardens have attracted many tourists to both seek out relaxation while also experiencing the process of making tea.

"We have developed a tea product and its package is integrated with information about tourism and culture in Wuzhishan. Visitors only need to scan the quick response (QR) code to get the latest information," said Wu Qinglei, director of Wuzhishan's municipal administration of culture and tourism.

Preferential policies in areas such as soft loans, financial support, and subsidies have been launched by the local government to boost the development of the tea industry. 

Standards in tea production processes, such as processing, storage, transportation, and packaging are established to ensure tea quality. [Photo/hinews.cn]