Guo Xiaomin(R), Party secretary of Haimen district, Nantong, and Chen Ligen, Party secretary of Nanjing Agricultural University, unveil the name plate of an industrial research institute for Haimen goats on May 31. [Photo/WeChat account: haimenfabu]

Haimen district in Nantong signed a cooperation agreement with Nanjing Agricultural University on May 31 to establish an industrial research institute for Haimen goats, local media outlets reported.

Haimen goat is a local specialty with a national Agro-product Geographical Indication, and is popular across the country.

In December 2011, the Haimen government worked with NAU to set up a Haimen goat research and development center that focuses on selective breeding and product development.

The new research institute will serve as an innovative pilot center specializing in industrial plans, product R&D, technological R&D, public technical services, talent training, and the transformation of research results.

Agriculture is the most important industry in Haimen, while Haimen goat is a unique sector in the district, said Guo Xiaomin, Party secretary of the district.

The partnership between Haimen and NAU is meant to boost the industry and enhance the brand's reputation through industry-university-research cooperation powered by science and technology, Guo added.

She said that the local government will spare no effort to offer the best living and working environment for NAU experts who start businesses and promote innovation in Haimen.