#China #Aquaculture #Deqing #Deqing Pearls #Agricultural Heritage

Deqing's Aquaculture Legacy Gains Global Status

On May 19, 2025, the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) announced a significant recognition for Deqing, located in Zhejiang, China. The Deqing Freshwater Pearl Aquaculture System has been added to the Globally Important Agricultural Heritage Systems (GIAHS) list for 2025. This prestigious inclusion marks a historic first for China in world heritage aquaculture, enhancing Deqing's reputation as a leader in sustainable aquaculture practices.

The Deqing system is remarkable not only for its historical significance but also for its innovative approach to aquaculture. Dating back to the Southern Song Dynasty, this region is credited with early advancements in freshwater pearl cultivation. Today, Deqing is a prime example of integrating traditional agricultural wisdom with contemporary ecological practices. In the serene waters of Xiaoshanyang, fish swim gracefully while freshwater mussels thrive. This ecosystem is symbiotic: the uneaten fish feed and waste fertilize plankton, which in turn nourishes the pearl mussels and purifies the water.

Aicha Bammoun, an FAO expert, highlights this system as a model of agricultural wisdom harmonized with modern conservation efforts. By promoting ecological balance, Deqing exemplifies the sustainable practices at the heart of Chinese agricultural civilization.

Recent advancements in the local economy further illustrate the success of this aquaculture legacy. Deqing has fostered the integration of a comprehensive “pearl plus” industry chain, which has turned pearl processing into a powerhouse with an annual output exceeding 7 billion yuan, employing around 20,000 individuals. This economic impact not only reflects the significance of the pearl industry in China but also underscores its role in driving the community's development.

The journey to global recognition began in the late 1970s with systematic research into the origins of freshwater pearl cultivation. Over three decades, extensive bibliographic studies and field research led to groundbreaking findings, establishing Deqing's place as the birthplace of artificial pearl cultivation in ancient China. In June 2017, the Deqing system was recognized as an Important Agricultural Heritage by the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs of China. Following this, efforts to nominate the system for GIAHS began, culminating in its acceptance into the preparatory list in 2019.

In April 2025, following a comprehensive evaluation by FAO experts, Deqing's inclusion was confirmed. As Min Qingwen, the head of the GIAHS Expert Committee at the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, aptly noted, this groundbreaking recognition establishes a new pathway for showcasing traditional Chinese agricultural wisdom on the global stage. However, he also emphasized that this achievement is merely the starting point, urging continuous exploration and promotion of the system's inherent value.

This recognition is more than just a badge of honor; it positions Deqing as a beacon of sustainable aquaculture, where ancient techniques and modern innovations coalesce to create a model of ecological and economic sustainability. The global community is now watching, eager to learn from Deqing's example of balancing tradition with modern needs, showcasing the resilience and adaptability of Chinese agricultural practices. As Deqing embarks on this new chapter, the world is invited to witness the beauty of its freshwater pearl heritage and its commitment to sustainability.