Okra industry in Shandong's district thrives

Over 1,000 mu (66.67 hecatres) of okra are currently being harvested in Dingtao district, Heze city in East China's Shandong province.

More than 100 workers are collecting the ripe okra in Dingtao district, Heze city and preparing them for shipment. [Photo by Li Li for chinadaily.com.cn]

The growers in Maji town in Dingtao district are pleased with the bumper yield this year. Guo Ming, one of the growers, said that he planted 100 mu and is satisfied with the income it has generated.

Dingtao district has in recent years been implementing large-scale planting, order-based sales, and offering boutique services to cater to the growing demands for okra, which is popular due to its high nutritional value.

As a result, the okra industry has been transformed into a high-efficiency, high-quality, and high-value-added market. The okra grown there is now being exported to Southeast Asia, Japan, and South Korea.

Guo Ming and other growers have implemented high-standard planting and fine management techniques, as well as secured purchase contracts with processing enterprises to cater to the demand. (Edited by Jin Yongxue)