Yantai conference highlights pear industry development

The first China Qiuyue Pear Conference opened on Sep 1 in Laiyang, Yantai, bringing together nearly 300 key industry decision-makers from major pear-producing regions, research institutions, leading enterprises, and distributors nationwide to explore pathways for the industry's high-quality development.

Known for its delicate flesh and juicy sweetness, the Qiuyue pear has rapidly gained popularity in the domestic market in recent years. However, as cultivation expands, the industry faces challenges such as inconsistent quality standards, limited preservation technologies, and intensifying market competition.

"We must shift from output-driven growth to a focus on quality and branding," said Sun Shaojun, president of the Laixiang Pear Industry Association.

Co-hosted by iFresh and the Laiyang Pear Industry Association, the conference featured a combination of field visits, closed-door discussions, and public forums.

Attendees toured orchards, smart packaging centers, and processing facilities; engaged in discussions with leading Chinese e-commerce platforms like Pagoda, Freshippo, and JD.com; and listened to experts' insights on topics like brand building, export opportunities and preservation technology.