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Shaoxing's exhibition area at the 2025 Zhejiang Agricultural Fair. [Photo/Tide News]

Shaoxing's specialty foods took center stage as the 2025 Zhejiang Agricultural Fair, which opened on Nov 21, with 55 local businesses presenting more than 100 products through physical displays and livestreams.

Districts and areas across Shaoxing highlighted their distinct strengths. Shangyu brought six companies under a unified regional label, featuring green tea, seasonal fruits and traditional rice cakes. Shengzhou set up an exhibition area built around its snack culture, where xiaolongbao (steamed soup dumplings), wheat pancakes, and tea drinks were displayed together.

The fair offered a combination of traditional techniques and modern trends. Exhibitors introduced new products, including fruit-infused tea drinks, redesigned packaged snacks, and sparkling yellow rice wine aimed at younger consumers. These products helped to improve the image and commercial potential of Shaoxing's local goods.

The growing popularity reflects a strengthening supply chain. According to the Shaoxing municipal bureau of agriculture and rural affairs, major specialty products generated an output value of 53.8 billion yuan ($7.6 billion) in the first three quarters this year, the highest in Zhejiang.

Local governments have also pushed to expand their market reach. In recent years, Shaoxing has built community-based workshops and piloted cooperation models that connect workshops, local industries and online hosts. These efforts are helping rural producers benefit from e-commerce development.

Freshly processed Dafo Longjing tea leaves. [Photo/Tide News]