In recent years, China’s pre-made dishes industry has flourished rapidly, not only making significant strides domestically but also actively exploring international markets across six continents, excluding Antarctica. With the global pre-made dishes market projected to reach over $500 billion, Chinese enterprises are embracing new strategies to embark on a grand journey of culinary diplomacy.
Asia: Capitalizing on Proximity
Asia stands as the largest market for pre-made dishes globally, accounting for 66% of the total market share. This dominance is attributed to Asia’s massive economic scale and population, as well as similar culinary cultures. For Chinese pre-made dish enterprises, Asia is the natural first stop and main battleground for overseas expansion. Regions like Hong Kong, Macau, and Southeast Asia share similar lifestyles and dietary habits with Guangdong, facilitating the promotion of Guangdong’s pre-made dishes.
Europe and North America: High-end Markets with Challenges and Opportunities
Europe ranks second in pre-made dishes market size, with the UK, France, and Germany being key destinations for Chinese exports. North America boasts the highest per capita consumption of pre-made dishes, making it a lucrative yet challenging market due to stringent food safety standards. Successfully entering these markets not only tests the quality of Chinese pre-made dishes but also enhances the international image of Chinese culinary brands.
Africa and Oceania: The Rising Stars
Africa, while currently having a lower per capita GDP, shows the highest growth potential with a projected compound annual growth rate of over 10%. Chinese enterprises are already making inroads, exporting products like processed seafood and pre-made dishes to African markets. Oceania, particularly Australia and New Zealand, despite their smaller market size, are significant due to their strict import standards. Gaining acceptance here serves as a testament to the high quality and safety standards of Chinese pre-made dishes.
Innovative Strategies: From Products to Models
Beyond product exports, Guangdong’s pre-made dishes are exploring innovative export models, such as establishing overseas “shared factories” and industrial parks. The recent unveiling of the Guangdong Pre-made Dishes Production, Sales, and Research Center in New Zealand and the launch of shared factory dumpling chain stores represent bold steps in full industry chain overseas deployment. These initiatives aim to lower logistics costs, navigate trade barriers, and adapt to local market demands.
Culinary Culture as a Bridge
Pre-made dishes serve as more than just economic exports; they are carriers of cultural exchange and cooperation. By sharing Chinese culinary traditions globally, these enterprises contribute to building a community with a shared future for mankind and practicing the concept of “Big Food View.” This aligns with a more open posture and a win-win philosophy in international trade, resource allocation, and technological exchange.
Challenges and Prospects
Despite the promising outlook, Chinese pre-made dishes face hurdles such as varying international standards, consumer preferences, and logistical challenges. Collaborative efforts, innovative models, and localized strategies are essential to overcoming these obstacles.
Conclusion
With ongoing innovation and strategic exploration, the aroma of Guangdong’s pre-made dishes is set to waft across the globe. The future holds great promise as Chinese enterprises continue to contribute wisdom and solutions to the global food industry’s high-quality development. As these initiatives gain momentum, the world can look forward to savoring the rich flavors of Chinese cuisine, symbolizing a delicious bond that connects nations.