Nectarine Harvest Boosts Rural Prosperity in Guizhou: A Key Driver of Local Economic Growth
Farmers in Longchang Town harvest nectarines amid busy picking season to meet soaring market demand.
As the early summer sun rises over Longchang Town, located in the Weining Yi, Hui and Miao Autonomous County of southwest China’s Guizhou Province, fields are bustling with activity. Across rolling orchards, local farmers can be seen picking, carrying, and packing nectarines as this year’s harvest reaches its peak. The vibrant fruits, gleaming under the June sky, have become a symbol of prosperity for the rural community whose livelihoods are increasingly tied to their success.
In the past few years, Longchang Town has capitalized on its favorable geographical advantages and mild climate to rapidly expand nectarine cultivation. Guided by local authorities, more than 3,000 mu (approximately 200 hectares) have been dedicated to high-quality nectarine production. Farmers have adopted standardized planting techniques and scientific management practices, resulting in nectarines that stand out in the market for their crisp texture and sweet, juicy flavor. These improvements have sparked strong demand among consumers, frequently causing supply to fall short of orders.
The results of these efforts are clearly visible. Since 2024, nectarines in the region have enjoyed not only high yields but also an extended marketing season from May all the way through August. For many local growers, this translates directly into increased incomes—each mu of land now generates over 10,000 yuan (about $1,390). This financial boost is reshaping the economic landscape of Longchang Town, with fruit production becoming a cornerstone of rural revitalization and an engine for reducing poverty.
Beyond the numbers, the nectarines have fostered community pride and provided stable employment for residents who participate in every step of the process—from harvesting in the orchards to careful packaging for transport. With consumer appetite for these high-quality nectarines showing no signs of slowing, the town looks poised for continued growth, offering a vivid example of how agriculture can drive sustainable development in rural China.
