进博会，让“火腿之都”更红火（进博会故事）

Core Insights - Iberian ham has become a "star product" at the China International Import Expo (CIIE), significantly increasing its presence on Chinese consumers' tables since its first participation in 2018 [1][3] - The town of Guijoro, which produces about 60% of Spain's Iberian ham, is experiencing growth due to the demand from the Chinese market [1][3] Group 1: Market Expansion - The participation in CIIE has accelerated the entry of Iberian ham into the Chinese market, with initial sales exceeding expectations, leading to increased interest from Spanish ham producers [3][4] - José María Agila, the fifth-generation leader of Agila Ham Company, expressed confidence in the Chinese market's potential, highlighting the large middle-income group and the opportunities for international brand development [3][5] Group 2: Economic Impact - Guijoro, known as the "ham capital," has over 120 ham companies, providing employment for more than 90% of its 6,000 residents, thus boosting the local economy [3][4] - The growth of the Iberian ham industry is expected to enhance the entire supply chain and local development, encouraging the younger generation to remain in the area [5][6] Group 3: Trade Relations - Since the first CIIE, Spanish agricultural products, including ham, wine, and olive oil, have gained popularity in China, making it one of the fastest-growing markets for Spanish exports [5][6] - The Spanish government emphasizes the importance of the Chinese market for its meat exports, which account for over 30% of Spain's pork exports [6]