The authorities in Zhejiang province – situated in East China -- recently issued the Action Plan (2021-25) on the Development of the Biotechnology Industry in Zhejiang's 26 Mountainous Counties.

The cutting-edge sector in the 26 counties is expected to top 50 billion yuan ($7.78 billion) in annual revenue by 2025, according to the blueprint. 

The development goals for the counties to attain by 2025 also include forming competitive biotech industrial clusters, a number of national-level geographic indication or GI products – as well as to develop native medicinal materials, native edible mushroom and native fruit production.

Another key goal is to make breakthroughs in the development and applications of biotechnologies, as well as raising the level of intelligent technology and the brand recognition of the industry.

Chun'an, Wencheng, Taizhun, Wuyi, Pan'an, Qujiang, Jiangshan, Kaihua, Tiantai, Xianju, Longquan, Qingyuan, Jinyun, Suichang and Jingning counties are in the frame. They are tasked with becoming competent manufacturers of traditional Chinese medicine materials.

Also given goals are Yongjia, Cangnan, Kecheng, Jiangshan, Longyou, Xianju, Sanmen, Longquan, Qingtian, Jinyun and Suichang counties. They are tasked with upgrading their medical equipment sector.

Meanwhile, Longyou, Longquan, Qingyuan and Suichang counties are tasked with developing high-value-added bamboo-related products.