The "Dayuan steamed buns", produced in Dayuan town, Jinyun county in Lishui, Zhejiang province, gain popularity across the country. [Photo/Tide News]

As the Spring Festival approaches, "Dayuan steamed buns", produced in Dayuan town, Jinyun county in Lishui, Zhejiang province, are gaining popularity across the country.

"Entering the 12th lunar month, we have produced more than 2,000 kilograms of steamed buns per day," explained Li Yueqin, head at the production and processing point in Choumen village of the Dayuan Collective Economic Development Company.

Li added, "The daily output is expected to exceed 4,000 kg in a few days. The steamed buns are mostly sold to Hangzhou in Zhejiang province, Shenzhen in Guangdong province, and Beijing."

Dayuan steamed buns are renowned for their unique fragrance and fermentation techniques, with a history of over 1,000 years. However, due to long-time constraints of transportation and marketing channels, it was previously difficult for the steamed buns to make its mark in regions outside of the remote town.

Since 2020, Dayuan's local government has shown its commitment to helping the steamed buns journey beyond the town's borders by establishing a marketing platform for agricultural products, holding numerous promotional activities, and building a series of brands.

In September 2022, the company invested more than 300,000 yuan ($41,943.77) to establish a production and processing point in Choumen village. The average daily production of steamed buns in the off season is more than 600 kg, while in the peak season it can reach over 2,000 kg.

The steamed buns have become a signature industry in Dayuan, driving an annual increase in income of over 3 million yuan for the locals. "In the peak season, several villagers can earn more than 3,000 yuan a month," said Li.