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The fourth China Regional Cuisine Development Conference opens in Shaoxing on Dec 16. [Photo/Tide News]

The fourth "China Regional Cuisine Development Conference" took place in Shaoxing, Zhejiang province, from Dec 16 to 17.

Nearly 400 culinary professionals from almost 100 cities gathered to discuss the latest achievements, trends, and future of Chinese regional cuisine.

The conference, themed around the Grand Canal, featured a cultural and culinary festival that included participation from 19 cities along the canal, such as Beijing and Tianjin.

During the main event on Dec 17, ten restaurant associations from cities along the canal signed a cooperation agreement. They committed to establishing mechanisms for mutual visits, talent development, dish exchange, and skills competitions.

The conference also hosted a variety of themed activities, including the Grand Canal (Shaoxing) Snack Carnival and a culinary exchange featuring regional and Shaoxing dishes.

From January to October 2024, Zhejiang's dining revenue accounted for 11.22 percent of the total retail sales and 7 percent of the national dining revenue, marking a 3.5 percent year-on-year increase.

In recent years, the Shaoxing government has promoted Shaoxing cuisine as a new landmark. During the same period in 2024, Shaoxing welcomed 48.85 million tourists, an 11.6 percent increase, and saw a 14.4 percent growth in the restaurant industry, both leading figures in the province.