A forum on bamboo industry development, organized by the Asian Development Bank and the International Bamboo and Rattan Organization, was recently held in Anji county, Huzhou, East China's Zhejiang province.

The forum highlighted the advancements of the global bamboo industry and sustainable bamboo architecture, while offering an inspiring cultural experience. A group of 46 international guests explored Anji's ecological beauty and its innovative development in the bamboo sector.

A feast of local bamboo dishes is set out for the participants. [Photo/WeChat ID: anjifb]

During the forum luncheon, the visitors praised the Anji Bamboo Shoot Feast, which featured the local bamboo shoots cuisine. The local bamboo shoots were cooked into delicious dishes, enhancing their value and increasing the income of local farmers.

Meghraj Poudel, deputy minister of the Philippines Department of Forest and Soil Conservation, said, "Bamboo is a vital natural gift, and Anji has done much to advance the industry. With innovation, Anji is exploring more natural products and expanding bamboo applications.

International guests try their hand at bamboo weaving in Anji county. [Photo/WeChat ID: anjifb]

The afternoon's cultural heritage hands-on experience involved intricate bamboo weaving. Guests used a special paper template developed by the Anji county forestry bureau and Zhejiang University of Technology to simplify things.

Southeast Asian expert Durai Jayaraman successfully wove bamboo strips, highlighting the blend of traditional craft and modern technology.