Grass weaving revitalizes economy in Shandong's town

A new wave of rural job opportunities is flowing in Sanchunji town – in Dongming county, administered by Heze city in East China's Shandong province – through innovative agricultural processes and handicraft projects.

With the focus on weaving humble grass into valuable products, the town is witnessing a surge in grassroots entrepreneurship.

At the heart of this endeavor are the bustling production workshops, where skilled workers diligently weave grass ropes into intricate baskets and mats.

What sets these projects apart is their very accessibility. This means that villagers of all ages can easily take part – including women and the elderly – adding a decidedly communal touch to the craftsmanship.

A seasoned craftsman deftly weaves a grass basket. [Photo by Xue Bo for chinadaily.com.cn]

But it's not just about smaller items like grass frames and mats. The artisans of Sanchunji town also craft very special grass-weaving pieces, capturing the attention of buyers nationwide and even abroad.

The surge in demand from them has helped inject new life into the local economy, with the grass weaving industry alone boasting an annual production exceeding one million pieces and a total output value nearing 5 million yuan ($692,590).

For the residents of Sanchunji town, grass weaving has now become more than just a means of livelihood; it's a symbol of empowerment and community prosperity. What's more, as these initiatives continue to thrive, they are said to serve as a bright beacon of hope for rural development across the region. (Edited by Zhou Yunlai)