The Dai-Lahu-Va Autonomous County of Menglian, located in Pu'er City of southwest China's Yunnan Province, is making a name for itself as a hotspot for avocado cultivation. This year, the county is set to harvest over 10,000 tonnes of avocado fresh fruits, resulting in estimated earnings exceeding 42 million U.S. dollars.
Local households are reaping the benefits, with an average annual income increase of over 3,000 yuan. "Our county enjoys over 2,100 hours of sunshine per year and an average annual rainfall of more than 1,300 mm," explained Han Bo, the county's Deputy Head.
Since 2007, Menglian has introduced major avocado varieties to the global market and collaborated with experts to conduct research on seed introduction, test planting, and seed expansion. The local avocado industry has gained steam with technical and financial support and subsidies.
Today, Menglian is one of China's largest avocado growers, with a cumulative avocado planting area of over 100,000 mu (about 6,667 hectares). The fruit is not only consumed fresh, but also used in milkshakes and ethnic cuisine, creating a unique avocado banquet.
Source: english.news.cn