Hainan's latest industrial ambition is a culinary delight

en.hainan.gov.cn

Updated: 2026-02-02

One of the much-loved local delicacies of Hainan is zaopo vinegar and the province is taking measures to expand its production in a bid to promote the differentiated development of a unique sector.

Zaopo vinegar, a traditional specialty of Puqian town in Wenchang city, has seen robust industrial growth in recent years. Traditional brewing techniques have been combined with modern standardized production, and efforts have been made to promote cultural-tourism integration and increase local incomes.

The 2026 Hainan government work report, unveiled at the recent provincial people's congress, made it clear that Hainan plans to "expand the distinctive industry of zaopo vinegar".

There are many production centers, each with their unique strategies. The premium Lingshui brand is focusing on the high‑end products featuring highly standardized production lines while the Ding'an brand is aiming for scale production with an eye on international market.

Meanwhile, Wenchang city — a major production hub — is leveraging its heritage as the birthplace of zaopo vinegar to explore a different development path that combines cuisine and cultural tourism, using local aerospace tourism as a driver and overseas Chinese culture as its springboard for growth.

A cook at a snack outlet in Puqian town prepares a zaopo vinegar-based dish for customers in Wenchang city, South China's Hainan province. [Photo/VCG]

A customer carries two bottles of zaopo vinegar in Puqian town, Wenchang city, South China's Hainan province. [Photo/VCG]

Two performers in theatrical costumes promote bottled zaopo vinegar at the 28th China (Hainan) International Winter Trade Fair for Tropical Agricultural Products on Dec 4, 2025. [Photo/VCG]

A scrumptious traditional Hainan snack — Zaopo vinegar seafood rice noodles. [Photo/VCG]