Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the removal of Feng Xiaoning, a prominent figure in the liquor industry, from the Renhuai City Liquor Industry Association due to alleged violations of self-regulatory rules, raising questions about industry ethics and practices [2][8][9]. Summary by Sections Incident Overview - On July 28, 2025, the Renhuai City Liquor Industry Association announced the removal of Feng Xiaoning from her position as Deputy Chair of the Production Technology Committee, citing violations of self-regulatory rules [6][9]. - The specific details of the violations were not disclosed by the association, leading to speculation and concern within the industry [2][3]. Feng Xiaoning's Background - Feng Xiaoning, aged 68, is recognized as one of the "Eight Immortals of Moutai," a group of esteemed liquor masters who contributed significantly to the development of Moutai's production techniques [3][22]. - She has a long history in the industry, having started her career at Moutai Distillery in 1976 and holding various influential positions over the years [17][18][21]. Response from Feng Xiaoning - In her response to the removal, Feng stated that the incident has unexpectedly increased her visibility, and she does not feel affected by the decision as she is no longer working with the association [4][15]. - She attributed the controversy to her previous promotional work for a product called "Kunliang Wang," which has faced scrutiny for its advertising practices [12][15]. Industry Implications - The association's decision serves as a warning to all practitioners in the liquor industry to adhere strictly to self-regulatory agreements and maintain the integrity of the Renhuai liquor brand [10]. - The association, established in 2002, comprises 359 members, including key enterprises in the liquor production and sales sectors, highlighting its significant role in the local industry [10].

Core Viewpoint - The removal of Feng Xiaoning from the Renhuai Wine Association has raised significant attention in the liquor industry, highlighting issues of industry self-regulation and the implications of personal branding in alcohol marketing [2][5]. Group 1: Incident Overview - On July 28, 2025, Feng Xiaoning, a 68-year-old former tasting master at Moutai Distillery, was expelled from the Renhuai Wine Association for violating self-regulatory rules, although specific details were not disclosed [2][5]. - The Renhuai Wine Association announced the decision through a public notice, stating that Feng's removal was approved by the association's executive meeting [3][5]. - Following the expulsion, Feng's activities are no longer associated with the Renhuai Wine Association, and any promotional materials involving her must not reference her former titles [6]. Group 2: Feng Xiaoning's Response - Feng Xiaoning expressed that the expulsion has not affected her personally, stating that her age and retirement status mean she is not concerned about the association's decision [2][9]. - She indicated that her involvement in promoting a specific liquor brand, Kunliang Wang, may have contributed to the association's actions against her, as the brand allegedly misused her name for marketing purposes [9][10]. - Despite the controversy, Feng noted that her technical skills remain valuable, and she continues to work in the industry [9][10]. Group 3: Industry Context - The Renhuai Wine Association, established in 2002, comprises various stakeholders in the liquor industry, including production, sales, and research entities, with a membership of 359 as of June 2025 [6]. - The association aims to uphold industry standards and ethics, emphasizing the importance of self-regulation among its members [6]. - Recent investigations by local authorities into liquor advertising practices have highlighted potential violations of advertising laws, which may have broader implications for the industry [8].