On October 20, a significant transformation in the digital apple industry is taking place in Gansu’s “Apple Village.” The region, known for its over 40 years of apple farming, is experiencing a remarkable evolution. Apple trees are now shorter and slimmer, apples have acquired “digital IDs,” and they undergo regular “health checks.” Apples are diversifying into various products like chips, beverages, and vinegar, thanks to internationally advanced production lines.
Pingliang, located in the golden apple production belt of China, is home to vibrant, sweet, juicy apples that have earned accolades such as “Chinese Famous Fruits.” These apples have made their way onto the tables of Olympic athletes and were even aboard the “Xuelong” research vessel to the Antarctic, reaching over 30 countries and regions globally.
In an interview on October 19, Tian Xuanbin, the general manager of Gansu Demai Geopolitical Modern Agricultural Group Co., Ltd., shared insights on their progress in apple digitization. Known locally as a second-generation apple farmer, he has become a leader in this innovative endeavor.
Tian explained how various aspects of apple farming, such as the number of branches a tree has, the length of those branches, and the harvest yield, can now be monitored through digital management systems. “This approach not only enhances production efficiency but also standardizes the process for non-standard products, extending back to the seedling and planting stages,” he stated. He emphasized that this digital transformation serves as an emotional connection between consumers and the traditional apple industry.
Looking ahead, Tian plans to expand exports to Southeast Asia, as well as develop high-value products like apple powder and apple liquor.
As the apple harvest season reaches its peak, Demai Group’s production lines are operating at full capacity to meet strong market demand. Workers are diligently sorting and packaging apples, utilizing international-grade sorting systems that categorize fruit based on skin color, shape, sweetness, and internal quality—essentially “X-raying” the apples using infrared technology for optimal selection.
In the picturesque autumn month of October, the countryside in Jingning is filled with the scent of ripe apples, heavy on the branches. Within a large apple base, a sign indicates a “Digital Agriculture Demonstration Point,” accompanied by specialized monitoring equipment.
Pingliang currently maintains a stable apple cultivation area of 1.5 million acres, with average sales prices leading the country for 18 consecutive years. On average, farmers earn over 7,500 RMB monthly from fruit sales. Jingning apples, characterized as the city’s premier apple brand, were highlighted during the recent 3rd China Apple Production and Marketing Summit held in the area, attracting numerous experts and businesspeople.
According to He Penghu, deputy general manager of Longyuan Hong Fruit Distribution Co., Ltd., the region has achieved a complete supply chain integration for Jingning apples, which now includes both deep processing lines: a dry line producing freeze-dried apple crisps, puffed apple snacks, and dried apples, and a wet line offering NFC apple juice, apple vinegar beverages, and apple cider.
Renowned agricultural branding expert and founder of Nongben Consulting, Jia Xiao, advised local enterprises to emphasize the “Jingning Apple” brand, helping more local businesses leverage this branding to enhance their market presence and create an industry hub, fostering broader growth for the apple sector in Pingliang and Gansu at large.
