Tasmanian producers are being showcased by one of China’s largest supermarkets, with Tasmanian produce pavilions now open for business inside five Yonghui Superstores in Fuzhou, the capital of Fujian Province.
The pavilions, which have been opened as part of Tasmania Week in Fujian, feature premium produce from Australian Honey Products, Josef Chromy Wines, Nocton Wines, Ralphs Seafood, Tasmanian Honey Company, and Bellamy’s Organics.
The pavilions will help Tasmanian producers who are already active in China to expand into new regions and markets. It’s also an important step in building a strong, long-lasting relationship with Yonghui.
Tasmania already has an established relationship with Yonghui Chairman, Mr Zhang Xuansong. Mr Zhang has visited Tasmania several times and his visit in late 2014 resulted in the first shipment of Tasmanian abalone to Yonghui’s supermarket shelves in early December 2014. This was soon followed by lobster, salmon head, Tasmania cherries and Tiger Fuji apples.
So far, RMB 10 million worth of Tasmanian produce has been sold in Yonghui stores, with Yonghui aiming to increase sales of Tasmanian products by 20 per cent this year.
Yonghui operates over 350 stores across 17 Chinese provinces and has the potential to introduce Tasmanian products to a huge and growing market of Chinese consumers who are looking for the premium products that Tasmania is renowned for.
This promotion is a fantastic example of our close ties with Fujian leading to great outcomes for Tasmania.