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Yinchuan's Global Wine Ambitions

In recent years, Yinchuan, the capital of Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region in northwest China, has made significant strides in establishing itself as a pivotal player in the global wine industry. From June 9 to 12, 2025, the city hosted the Fifth China (Ningxia) International Wine Culture and Tourism Expo in conjunction with the renowned 32nd Concours Mondial de Bruxelles. This event marked a crucial step in promoting the global dialogue within the wine industry.

Yinchuan's vision is to transform into a 'Global City of Wine' by implementing a comprehensive array of supportive policies aimed at attracting investments, integrating cutting-edge technologies, and promoting international cooperation. Currently, Yinchuan boasts the most concentrated hub for grape production in China, with an impressive 273,000 mu (approximately 18,200 hectares) allocated to vineyards that include 155 wineries and grape-growing enterprises. By 2024, annual wine production in Yinchuan reached 75 million bottles, amounting to about 26.8% of China's total wine output.

Over the years, local winemakers have successfully developed 19 distinct types of wines, some of which have earned the honor of being designated as national gifts, exported to more than 40 countries and regions. The journey toward this success has not been easy; a few years ago, the eastern foothills of Helan Mountains were largely barren and sandy. In response to this challenge, Yinchuan has undertaken an ambitious initiative to restore its ecosystem.

The city has adopted an integrated approach to protect and enhance its mountains, rivers, forests, farmland, lakes, grasslands, and deserts. By strategically aligning ecological restoration with the development of its wine industry, cultural tourism, and environmental conservation, Yinchuan is pursuing a high-quality growth model that balances resource utilization with ecological governance. This harmonious approach not only aims to bolster economic growth but also ensures the protection of diverse natural resources.

Yinchuan's commitment to eco-friendly practices extends into the wineries located along the eastern foothills of the Helan Mountains. Here, meticulous attention is paid to each step of the winemaking process, from scientifically-backed planting methods to the application of advanced vinification technologies. As the birthplace and center of Ningxia's wine industry, Yinchuan is steadfast in its mission to meet high global standards, with 37 classified wineries and 53 enterprises holding certified geographical indications.

In 2024, Yinchuan's wine industry recorded a remarkable production value of 36 billion yuan (approximately 5.02 billion USD). This substantial economic footprint underscores the city's potential as a significant player in the global wine market, aided by its strategic policies and sustainable practices. As the city continues to cultivate its reputation and capabilities, the world is poised to witness the rise of Yinchuan as a leading destination for wine lovers and industry professionals alike, setting an exemplar for how to merge wine tourism and ecological sustainability.

The synergy between Yinchuan's ecological initiatives and its wine industry not only sets a precedent for sustainable development in China but also enhances the appeal of the region. As Yinchuan forges ahead, its unwavering commitment to becoming a global wine capital reflects a harmonious blend of tradition, innovation, and environmental stewardship, ensuring a promising future for the region's viniculture.

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