China consumes 70% of watermelons globally

Watermelons are an essential remedy in China for managing the often intense summer heat across many parts of the country. China is the world’s largest producer and consumer of watermelons, accounting for about 65-70% of the global supply. Known as 西瓜 (Xīguā) or “melon of the west,”

Watermelon holds a unique and significant place in China, both culturally and agriculturally.

1. Dominant Producer and Consumer: China is the world’s largest producer and consumer of watermelons, accounting for about 70% of the global watermelon production. The fruit is grown in vast quantities across various provinces, with major production hubs in the warmer southern regions.
2. Cultural Importance: Watermelon is more than just a refreshing summer fruit in China; it has cultural significance, especially during the summer months and festive occasions.
3. Cooling : It is often consumed during family gatherings and social events to promote cooling and hydration.
4. Historical Introduction: Watermelon, known as 西瓜 (Xīguā), which translates to “melon of the west,” is believed to have been introduced to China around the 10th century during the Tang Dynasty via the ancient Silk Road trade routes. Some historians argue it could have been as early as the Han Dynasty.
5. Watermelon Juice in restaurant. Many Chinese restaurant offer watermelon juice to their clients.
6. Versatility and Nutritional Value: Beyond eating the juicy flesh, Chinese cuisine also utilizes the rind and seeds. The rind is often pickled or stir-fried, while the seeds are roasted and eaten as a snack. Nutritionally, watermelons are rich in vitamins A and C and are known for their hydrating properties due to their high water content.

These facts highlight the importance and versatility of watermelon in China, underscoring its role not only as a staple summer fruit but also as a cultural and medicinal symbol.

Watermelon history in China

Watermelons are thought to have originated in Africa and were likely introduced to China via the ancient Silk Road trade routes. Historians debate the timing of this introduction, with some suggesting it was during the Tang Dynasty (618-907 AD), while others believe it could have been as early as the Han Dynasty (206 BC-220 AD).

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), watermelons are valued for their ability to alleviate symptoms of summer heat such as exhaustion, thirst, and irritability. Roasted watermelon seeds, enjoyed all year round, are not only a popular snack but are also considered beneficial for digestion and preventing urinary tract infections. These seeds are also commonly used in various TCM herbal medicine formulations.

Celebrating this fruit, the renowned Song Dynasty poet Su Dongpo (1037-1101) penned a poem expressing his fondness for watermelons: “Facing south with my back to the north, I am eating a watermelon, throwing the rind eastwards; from top to bottom, I am reading a classic, turning the pages to the right

The fruit market in China

the vibrant world of China’s fruit market, where the blend of tradition and innovation creates a fascinating landscape for consumers and businesses alike. Today, I’m diving into the top 10 trends shaping this booming industry. Whether you’re a marketer, an entrepreneur, or just a fruit enthusiast, these trends are sure to pique your interest and maybe inspire your next business move.

Imported Fruits in China Sell Well on Chinese E-commerce Platforms

1. Premiumization of Fruit: Chinese consumers are increasingly seeking high-quality, premium fruits, often imported or specially grown under strict conditions.
2. Health and Wellness Focus: With a rising awareness of health and wellness, fruits touted for their health benefits, like blueberries and avocados, are seeing a surge in popularity.
3. Convenience Packaging: Single-serving and easy-to-consume fruit options are becoming popular for on-the-go consumers.
4. E-commerce Boom: Online fruit shopping is growing, fueled by platforms like Taobao and JD.com. The convenience of home delivery and the assurance of quality when buying from reputable online vendors are a must in China. (read more)
5. Imported Fruits Rise: Exotic and imported fruits are increasingly popular as Chinese consumers become more affluent and open to trying new tastes.
6. Seasonal and Regional Marketing: There is a strong market for seasonal marketing strategies that capitalize on the availability of certain fruits, like lychees and peaches, promoting them vigorously when they are in season.
7. Branding and Storytelling: More companies are focusing on branding, using stories about the origin and growers to create a connection with consumers
8. Sustainability Practices: Eco-friendly practices are becoming a competitive edge. This includes everything from sustainable farming to biodegradable packaging, appealing particularly to environmentally conscious consumers.
9. Snackification: Fruit is being reinvented as a snack, with innovations like freeze-dried fruits, fruit chips, and even fruit-based energy bars. This trend is aligning fruit consumption with the snacking habits of busy urban citizens.
10. Innovative Retail Experiences: Finally, the retail experience is evolving. From fruit-themed cafes and boutique fruit shops to in-store tasting events, businesses are finding new ways to engage customers directly and enhance the shopping experience.

Read more

How to Export Fruits to China: List of Chinese Fruits Importers

These fruits trends are transforming China’s food market, making it more dynamic and integrated with global market forces.

As this market continues to evolve, it will be fascinating to see how these trends develop and what new trends will emerge. Stay tuned, and keep an eye on this exciting industry!