The signing ceremony takes place in Jiaxing, Zhejiang province, on Feb 27. [Photo/Tide News]

Keypack Technology Group, Peakflow Technology, and Zhu Lao Da Supply Chain Management signed an agreement in Haiyan county, Jiaxing, to launch an intelligent production line for zongzi — a traditional rice dumpling wrapped in bamboo leaves.

With growing global interest in Dragon Boat Festival traditions and rising demand for frozen foods, the industry faces increasing pressure to modernize. The new production line integrates automated weighing, high-efficiency packaging, intelligent inspection, and sorting. This full-process system enhances productivity, reduces manual labor costs, and ensures consistent product specifications.

As a century-old leader in the zongzi market, Zhu Lao Da continues to embrace innovation.

"This smart production line brings automation, precision, and sustainability," said Fu Liqun, general manager of Zhu Lao Da's Haiyan factory supply chain. "Daily per-worker output will increase from 1,800 to 2,500 zongzi, while precise ingredient measurement cuts raw material waste. The system also features a water recycling process to reduce wastewater emissions."

Keypack Technology Group CEO Cao Weixing highlighted the challenges overcome in developing the system. "Our R&D team iterated three prototypes to solve issues like sticky rice adhesion and misaligned bamboo leaves. After testing over 15 anti-stick materials, we finally cracked the formula," said he.

Sweetened zongzi with the addition of red bean paste or a puree of Chinese jujubes is popular in northern China. [Photo provided to China Daily]

The new production line is set to launch before Dragon Boat Festival when zongzi is not only enjoyed for its culinary appeal but also cherished for its cultural significance. Families and friends gather to make and share the delicious treat.

Jiaxing zongzi is a renowned specialty in China's Jiangnan (south of the lower reaches of the Yangtze River) and has a rich history. The city, historically known as the "granary of the nation", has been a significant rice-growing area in Chinese history. The area's abundant agricultural products have contributed to the development of various flavors of its zongzi.

Jiaxing's savory zongzi is filled with soy sauce, pork, water chestnuts, and salted duck egg yolk. The combination of high-quality ingredients and traditional cooking methods results in a delectable treat that is enjoyed by people of all ages.

Loved by locals and tourists alike, Jiaxing zongzi has become a symbol of the area's culinary excellence and is often referred to as the "Eastern fast food" due to its portability. According to local market authorities, the production output of the city's zongzi industry amounted to 5 billion yuan ($690.13 million) last year, making up about 50 percent of all zongzi produced in China.