Chongqing - Beiping Township, Chengkou County, is the northernmost township in Chongqing, located in the Qinba Mountain area. Since the beginning of this year, trucks loaded with edible fungi have been dispatched weekly, heading to Guangdong and then by sea to Southeast Asia, Japan, and South Korea.

China is the world's largest producer of edible fungi, contributing over 70% of global production. Wei Jingyi, director of the Expert Committee of the Chongqing Edible Fungi Association, highlights that Chinese fungi are known for their rich variety, high quality, and low cost.

Chongqing's edible fungi exports are booming. In the first quarter of 2024, Chongqing Customs District reported a 383.4% year-on-year increase in specialty agricultural product exports, including morels.

"I returned to my hometown to start a business because Chengkou mushrooms fetched a good price," said Ao Changlong, Chairman of Rongbin Agricultural Development Co., Ltd. at Chengkou County. He shared that the thriving overseas market for edible fungi enabled him to expand his business to Singapore, something he had never dared to dream of before.

On June 17, Ao Changlong checked his export edible fungi products in Chengkou. (Photo/ www.chinanews.com)

The dried edible mushrooms grown by Rongbin Agricultural Development Co., Ltd. in Chengkou County, Chongqing, were released by Wanzhou Customs under the on-site supervision of Chongqing Customs District and exported to Australia. (Photo/ Chongqing Customs District)

He Likun, who also cultivates and exports edible fungi in Beiping Township, has shifted from research to business; he is confident in the global potential of China's edible fungi industry, citing its advanced technology and strong industrial chain.

He said that China's edible fungi industry boasts mature technology and large-scale production capabilities, with established enterprises in Nanchuan, Chengkou, and other districts. The industry also benefits from an abundant supply of mushroom wood.

According to Fortune Business Insights, button mushrooms are the most widely consumed type globally. They are grown in major producing countries, including China. Research on their cancer-preventing potential and affordability compared to specialty varieties is expected to boost their market performance in the coming years.

Li Jiuhong, an experienced distributor with nearly 20 years in the edible fungi export business, said mushrooms can be enjoyed in various ways. They can be stewed, steamed, braised, and even added to chocolate, biscuits, candy, and ice cream.

Li added that edible fungi have become widely available to consumers overseas through food processing plants, restaurants, and supermarkets.

Industry insiders note that while the edible fungi export industry is developing, it faces challenges. Wei highlighted that import standards in Europe, America, and Japan have become increasingly stringent. This demands that enterprises adhere to the product standards of these importing countries, continuously improve production equipment and processes, and enhance their overall strength.

Liu Guangyao, a senior official with Lianglu Cuntan Customs, said that to support enterprises, the customs have formed professional teams to research technical trade measures for edible fungi. They have gathered over 40 international standards and created briefings to help companies mitigate risks.

Customs officers carried out daily supervision at the export mushroom raw material cultivation farm. (Photo/ Chongqing Customs District)

Industry insiders have prepared for these challenges, believing they could ultimately benefit global diners by allowing them to enjoy delicious experiences together.