The dairy industry is widely viewed as being one of Hohhot's most competitive and dynamic areas of business. [Photo/Hohhot Daily]

The city of Hohhot – capital of North China's Inner Mongolia autonomous region and located at 40 degrees north latitude – is recognized as being an integral part of the world's Golden Milk Belt.

Utilizing its natural and geographical advantages, the city has developed its dairy industry into a pillar of high-quality growth.

With leading enterprises like the Yili Group driving innovation, Hohhot has created a comprehensive dairy value supply chain, evolving from being known as China's Dairy Capital into being a Global Dairy Technology Hub.

In November, Yili Group achieved significant breakthroughs in probiotic and breast milk research, winning two top awards at the 21st Annual Meeting of the Chinese Institute of Food Science and Technology. Yili also presented its global health products at the 7th China International Import Expo, underscoring Hohhot’s openness and innovation in dairy.

Key to this transformation is the National Dairy Technology Innovation Center, established by Yili to address strategic challenges in the industry.

With over 120 member organizations, the center integrates cutting-edge technologies, addressing critical issues like milk processing and sustainable packaging. In all, it has completed 145 research projects, filed 113 patents and published 152 papers.

Hohhot's dairy sector is also expanding globally, with Yili setting up overseas innovation centers in New Zealand, the Netherlands and beyond. Guided by technology and a global vision, Hohhot's dairy industry is accelerating its journey to establish itself as a world-class leader.