A delegation from the city of Xiangyang, located in Shanxi province in northwestern China, visited the embassies of Pakistan, Peru, Morocco, Turkey, and Fiji in Beijing from March 16 to 19, aiming to promote Fu Xiangyang tea, a type of Chinese black tea with a long history spanning over 600 years. This visit is part of efforts to enhance the presence of this tea in global markets.
The delegation was led by Shi Yudong, Vice Chairman of the Xiangyang Municipal Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, who met over four days with high-level diplomatic representatives from the five countries.
Event Details
Fu tea is produced in the Jingyang area of Xiangyang and is characterized by the presence of a natural fungus known as Jin Hua (Eurotium cristatum), which contains a high level of amino acids, vitamins, and trace elements. This fungus develops under specific conditions within the tea, which comes in the form of solid blocks.
The production technique of Fu tea was included in the list of national intangible cultural heritage in China in 2021 and was listed in the UNESCO representative list of intangible cultural heritage in 2022.
Background & Context
Tea culture is an essential part of Chinese heritage, with a history of tea consumption dating back thousands of years. The techniques of tea cultivation and production in China have significantly evolved, making it one of the largest tea-producing countries in the world. Fu Xiangyang tea is considered one of the distinctive varieties that reflect this rich heritage.
In recent years, the Chinese tea industry has witnessed remarkable growth, with Fu Xiangyang tea currently encompassing 65 products across five categories, an annual production capacity exceeding 30,000 tons, and sales value surpassing 3 billion yuan. This tea has been exported to over 40 countries, reflecting its success in global markets.
Impact & Consequences
The delegation's visit comes at a critical time as China seeks to strengthen its trade and cultural relations with other countries. Representatives from the five nations expressed significant interest in Fu tea, with Abdelkader Al-Ansari, the Moroccan ambassador, noting that his country is one of the largest importers of green tea from China. Selçuk Ünal, the Turkish ambassador, emphasized the importance of tea as a link in the ancient Silk Road.
Meanwhile, Aslam Chaudhry, Pakistan's Minister of Economy, pointed out the similarities between Fu tea and traditional tea from northern Pakistan, reflecting the cultural connection between the two countries. Jorge Garcia, the Consul General of Peru, highlighted the significance of the Chinese community in his country as a foundation for cultural and commercial relations.
Regional Significance
Tea culture is also an important part of Arab heritage, where tea is considered a symbol of hospitality and social interaction. The visit of the Xiangyang delegation can contribute to enhancing cultural relations between China and Arab countries, especially given the growing interest in Chinese tea in the region.
In conclusion, the delegation hopes that Fu Xiangyang tea will serve as a bridge connecting Xiangyang city with global communities, as Shi stated: "Tea is a symbol of peace, friendship, and openness."