Core Insights - The article highlights the significance of Jilin Fushun as the "hometown of ginseng" in China, where 80% of the country's ginseng is sourced, showcasing its rich history and cultural heritage [1][2][4] Industry Overview - Fushun County has a 1,700-year history of wild ginseng harvesting and a 460-year history of ginseng cultivation, making it a core production area for ginseng in the Changbai Mountain region [4] - The region's forest coverage rate is 87.6%, providing an ideal ecological environment for high-quality ginseng production [2] Cultural Significance - Fushun has developed unique cultural traditions around ginseng harvesting, with 52 items recognized as intangible cultural heritage at various administrative levels [4][6] - The local customs reflect a deep respect for nature and sustainable development practices [6] Technological Advancements - The traditional ginseng cultivation method has evolved from deforestation to planting under protected natural forests, enhancing ecological sustainability and producing higher-value near-wild ginseng [7] - Fushun has established a "ginseng ID" system using IoT technology to monitor cultivation conditions and trace the origins of ginseng products, combating market fraud [7] Market Dynamics - The Wanliang Town ginseng market is the only national-level professional ginseng trading market in China, accounting for 80% of the national ginseng trade, with an expected trading volume of nearly 70 million pounds in 2024 [9][11] - Approximately 90% of local households are involved in the ginseng industry, contributing to significantly higher average incomes compared to surrounding areas [11][12] Economic Impact - Fushun County has registered 3,200 ginseng-related businesses, making the ginseng industry a key driver of local economic growth [11] - The county aims to integrate ginseng cultivation, processing, packaging, and sales into a complete industrial chain, targeting a total industry transaction value of 18.64 billion yuan in 2024 [13][14] Product Diversification - The region has developed over 600 ginseng products across five categories, including food, beverages, pharmaceuticals, health products, and skincare [14] - Ginseng products are exported to over 30 countries and regions, including Japan, South Korea, and Southeast Asia [14] Future Prospects - Fushun continues to host the "China Fushun Changbai Mountain Ginseng Festival," promoting cultural and economic integration through various events and activities [17] - The local government is exploring diverse tourism routes that combine ginseng with non-material cultural heritage, health, and local customs, enhancing the overall visitor experience [17]