#China #Sichuan #Baijiu #World Heritage

Launch of the World Heritage Properties Influence Index

On June 20, 2026, the World Heritage Properties Influence Index was officially launched during the Culture Forum at Langjiu Estate in Sichuan, southwest China. This important event saw participation from twenty-eight renowned global properties, signaling a significant step in the evaluation of heritage sites and their influences worldwide.

The Index, developed by the Xinhua Index Institute, is a pioneering evaluation tool that employs a multidimensional framework covering various categories of alcoholic beverages, production regions, and cultural contexts. It systematically assessed 94 representative wineries from 23 countries across six continents, establishing a global evaluation framework with substantial explanatory power, interregional comparability, and a strategic reference value.

Evaluation Model and Rankings

Utilizing a pentadimensional assessment model comprising rooting, driving force, vitality, projection, and sustainability, the Index classifies the 94 sample properties into four tiers: 10 leading estates, 35 premium estates, 37 core estates, and 12 notable estates. Among these, the Langjiu Estate stands out as the only Chinese baijiu winery achieving the leader tier, owing to its exceptional performance in projection and sustainability dimensions.

Langjiu has creatively transformed the intricate process of baijiu production into an immersive visitor experience, attracting over 200,000 visitors annually. This transformation not only enhances visitor engagement but also establishes a narrative framework for Chinese baijiu estates that resonates on a global level. It serves as a remarkable example of the rising influence of Chinese liquor estates in the international arena.

Significance of the Index

Industry experts highlight that the launch of the World Properties Influence Index acts as a benchmark for properties worldwide to assess and enhance their development. It also provides invaluable guidance for both international and local development within the Chinese baijiu industry. There are broader expectations that the Index will foster greater integration and higher quality development among properties globally, promoting mutual learning between civilizations.

The Culture Forum, co-hosted by China's Economic Information Service and Sichuan Langjiu Co., Ltd., carried the theme "Heritage and Innovation". The gathering of global estate representatives served as a high-level platform for dialogue and exchange, aiming to advance the worldwide wine and spirits industry. It seeks to bridge the preservation of classical traditions with the creation of renewed value, while also supporting the internationalization of Chinese alcoholic beverage culture.

In a world increasingly focused on heritage and cultural exchange, this Index and the accompanying forum mark a significant stride towards understanding and valuing the diverse contributions of heritage estates. Through such groundbreaking initiatives, we can anticipate a new era of cultural appreciation and collaboration in the global spirits market.