Our team at FES Partners had a great time visiting the 2024 SIAL Fair in Shanghai, one of the largest food and beverage exhibitions in the world.
We had the pleasure of connecting with friends, clients, and partners in the industry and are excited to share some of the current trends shaping China’s food and food ingredients market.
1. Dairy: Balancing Traditional and Plant-Based Demand
The Chinese dairy market is witnessing diverse growth trends. While the demand for plant-based alternatives, such as almond and oat milk, is growing at an impressive rate of 20% year-over-year, the demand for certain traditional dairy products is also surging and changing, particularly among Gen Z consumers.
A new report by the China Dairy Industry Association and Dutch dairy company Royal FrieslandCampina highlights that Gen Z, those born between 1995 and 2009, are leading the trend in China’s dairy consumption, prioritizing the nutritional content, source areas, and environmentally friendly packaging of dairy products.
This dual trend requires the dairy sector to continuously innovate to meet the demands of plant-based enthusiasts and young consumers of traditional dairy products.
2. Meat: The Rise of High-Quality, Traceable Meat Products
Chinese consumers are placing a higher value on quality and traceability when it comes to meat products. There is a growing preference for imported meats that come with certifications and detailed sourcing information. For example, Australian beef and New Zealand lamb are highly sought after for their perceived higher standards and safety. This trend is driving exporters to emphasize transparency and quality in their product offerings.
Our team focused on visiting the meat exhibition area, where the on-site meat pavilion attracted foodies with its eye-catching meat dishes: fresh, natural, healthy, and organic. High-quality Angus beef, Australian beef, Brazilian, British, New Zealand lamb, Uruguayan and other premium meats were showcased, directly from the pastures to the table, filling the air with the aroma of meat.
The Russian exhibitors had a strong lineup this year, featuring a variety of chicken, beef, pork products, as well as king crabs, scallops, and other seafood. They also presented a wide range of products from honey, red wine, chocolate to sausages, offering various tasting experiences.
Bright Food Group’s Bright International Trade brought over 3,000 SKUs of premium brands, creating various delicacies on-site from around the world.
3. Fresh Produce: A Growing Appetite for Premium & Exotic Fruits
The fresh produce market in China is expanding with a particular interest in exotic and premium fruits and vegetables. Avocados, blueberries, and dragon fruits are seeing a surge in demand due to their health benefits and unique flavors. The import of avocados, for instance, has grown by over 150% in the past five years, reflecting the Chinese consumer’s expanding palate and interest in diverse, nutritious options.
Beyond the insights, we thoroughly enjoyed engaging with our network and building new connections. It’s always a pleasure to see the dynamic growth and innovation in this vibrant market.
Thank you to everyone who made our visit memorable.
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