Core Points - The Sichuan Provincial People's Congress held a special press conference to announce the "Sichuan Province Regulation on Promoting the Development of Sichuan Cuisine" which will take effect on May 1 [1] - The regulation aims to strengthen legal protection for the development of Sichuan cuisine, addressing previous policy measures that were fragmented and lacked a comprehensive approach [1][2] - The regulation consists of 29 articles focusing on promoting the Sichuan cuisine industry, enhancing regional cooperation, internationalization, cultural heritage, and talent cultivation [1][2] Industry Development - Sichuan is the second province in China to legislate for a local cuisine, learning from the legislative experience of Guangdong's Cantonese cuisine regulation [2] - The regulation emphasizes a problem-oriented approach to construct a modern Sichuan cuisine industry system, addressing issues such as departmental coordination, industry chain improvement, and talent supply [2][4] - The Sichuan Provincial Department of Commerce will lead six key initiatives, including brand cultivation, restaurant evaluation systems, and promoting Sichuan cuisine consumption and internationalization [4] Brand and Market Strategy - Sichuan aims to build a brand matrix system for Sichuan cuisine, integrating public brands, specialty foods, and time-honored brands to enhance market presence [4] - The province has 57 "Chinese Time-Honored Brands" and over 200 "Sichuan Time-Honored Brands," with 80% related to Sichuan cuisine [5] - The regulation highlights the importance of brand as a core element and the key role of market entities in driving the development of Sichuan cuisine [4] Internationalization Efforts - The international recognition of Sichuan cuisine is high, but its image and influence need enhancement, which is a significant goal of the new regulation [6] - The Sichuan Non-Heritage Association plans to promote Sichuan cuisine through various channels, including participation in domestic and international exhibitions [6] - The Sichuan Provincial Department of Commerce will facilitate foreign trade and investment for Sichuan cuisine enterprises, encouraging them to explore international markets [6] Talent Development - Sichuan has over 60 educational institutions offering programs related to Sichuan cuisine, producing nearly 20,000 professionals annually [7] - The province is transitioning from traditional apprenticeship models to standardized and scientific training methods in culinary education [7] - The regulation reinforces the commitment to cultivating culinary talent and supporting the high-quality development of Sichuan cuisine [7]