Two Ningbo Customs officials examine reed cool mats. [Photo/cnnb.com.cn]

As temperatures soar with summer's arrival, cool mats produced in Ningbo, Zhejiang province are offering a breath of fresh air to the global market.

Official data from Ningbo Customs reveals that exports of cool mats from Ningbo exceeded 100 million yuan ($13.77) in the first five months of this year. The mats have gained a reputation for their intricate texture, resilience, softness, and storability.

Chen Yuqing, head of the documentation department at Ningbo Kaicheng Arts & Crafts Co Ltd, shared, "Our company specializes in the research, development, and export of various bamboo, wood, and grass products. While Japan was traditionally our primary trading partner, consumers in Europe and America are now recognizing the comfort and practicality of reed products. We recently fulfilled our first export order to the United States." The company recently shipped a consignment of reed cool mats valued at 29,000 yuan to the US.

In an effort to boost the export of cool mats, Ningbo Customs has been providing comprehensive guidance to related companies on production, packaging, storage, and transportation processes to enhance their international competitiveness. It has also been assisting companies in refining their management systems related to epidemic prevention, pest control, monitoring, and emergency response.

"In addition to helping companies perfect their management systems, we are monitoring changes in technical trade measures in markets such as the US, helping companies understand the quarantine policies and safety and health requirements of destination countries," said Li Zhaobao, an official at Ningbo Customs.