An official of Huzhou Customs inspects a batch of mooncakes for export. [Photo/Tide News]

A recent shipment of mooncakes, produced by Zhiweiguan Food Co's factory in Huzhou in East China's Zhejiang province, has cleared customs and is set to be exported to international markets.

As China's traditional Mid-Autumn Festival nears, the demand for mooncake exports continues to rise.

According to data from Huzhou Customs, the city's exports of mooncakes reached 1.33 million yuan ($186,807) from January to August this year, a 7 percent year-on-year increase.

Zhiweiguan is a time-honored food brand from Hangzhou. Zhiweiguan Food Co has been focusing on innovation to expand its overseas market presence.

"This year, we introduced five new mooncake varieties, including popular options like custard lava and low-sugar mooncakes," said Zhu Zhidong, the company's sales director.

"To cater to the increasing demand for mooncake gifts from overseas markets, we are exporting mooncakes in gift box formats, infused with traditional Chinese cultural elements," Zhu said.

"Our mooncakes are now sold in countries including Australia, Canada, and Spain, with exports increasing by 12.8 percent from January to August," Zhu added.

To ensure timely delivery, Huzhou Customs has provided streamlined clearance services, such as appointment inspections and quick certification, minimizing clearance times and ensuring that seasonal mooncakes reach international consumers fresh and safely.