In preparation for the upcoming Lantern Festival, Ningbo Wanli Food Co Ltd is ramping up its operations to meet the surge in demand for tangyuan, a traditional glutinous rice treat enjoyed during the holiday.

The company's warehouse in Ningbo, Zhejiang province has become a hub of activity, with trucks laden with goods lining up at the entrance, ready to transport thousands of boxes of tangyuan to international markets.

As one of the leading producers of tangyuan in China, Ningbo Wanli Food was fully prepared for the peak export season before the Chinese New Year holiday began. With six automated production lines operating at full capacity, the company is able to produce over 80 varieties of tangyuan products to cater to different consumer preferences.

The demand for tangyuan has seen a significant increase in recent years, with a notable rise in export orders.

"In 2023 alone, our company witnessed 10 percent year-on-year growth in sales, primarily driven by exports to countries such as the United States and Australia. These tangyuan products are supplied to major supermarkets and Chinese restaurants, allowing overseas consumers to indulge in the flavors of their homeland during the festive season," said Li Yuhuan, chairman of the company.

To promote tangyuan to more overseas customers, Ningbo Wanli Food has worked closely with customs authorities to implement comprehensive control measures throughout the production process, from sourcing raw materials to final packaging.

The Ningbo Customs has also provided tailored assistance to companies like Wanli, offering guidance on risk analysis and export planning.