In the modernization of agriculture, branding has emerged as a powerful force in boosting the rural economy and increasing farmers' incomes.

Qingdao leverages its unique natural advantages to produce high-quality agricultural products while excelling in the art of brand-building. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn] 

Qingdao, a coastal city in Shandong, leverages its unique natural advantages to produce high-quality agricultural products while excelling in the art of brand-building. This has enabled the city to transition from a major agricultural producer to a strong one, creating a distinctive path where branding empowers farmers and boosts incomes.

Today, "Qingdao agricultural products" has been ranked among China's top 10 regional agricultural brands for six consecutive years, with market transactions exceeding 100 billion yuan ($14.13 billion) in 2024, demonstrating the success of its brand-driven approach.

Pingdu Dazeshan grapes, with a cultivation history spanning over 2,000 years, reach a brand value of more than 3.68 billion yuan, driving local tourism and cultural integration. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn] 

Qingdao's agricultural brands are deeply rooted in local distinctiveness. Situated at the golden latitudes of 35°N to 37°N, the city's temperate climate and diverse landscapes — from vast rural hinterlands to expansive coastlines — provide an ideal environment for specialty produce.

The region boasts 54 national geographical indication products, including Jiaozhou Chinese cabbage, a vegetable with a millennial history, now sold internationally for up to 50 yuan per head. Similarly, Pingdu Dazeshan grapes, with a cultivation history spanning over 2,000 years, have reached a brand value of more than 3.68 billion yuan, driving local tourism and cultural integration.

With one national and four provincial specialty agricultural zones, Qingdao has over 4 million mu (about 26,667 hectares) dedicated to characteristic farming.

Qingdao's temperate climate and diverse landscapes — from vast rural hinterlands to expansive coastlines — provide an ideal environment for specialty produce. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn] 

From Laoshan cherries in spring to Huangdao blueberries in summer, Dazeshan grapes in autumn, and Jiaozhou cabbage in winter, each product has an unmistakable "Qingdao imprint", strengthening the city's agricultural brand and fostering sustainable rural growth.