Pilgrim's Pride and Deqing: Celebrating Sustainable Aquaculture and GIAHS Recognition in China

Deqing's Heritage and Sustainable Aquaculture: A Milestone for China's Pearl Industry

Deqing, a city in Huzhou, Zhejiang Province, celebrates a significant achievement as the "Deqing Freshwater Pear Mussels Composite Fishery System" receives recognition from the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) as part of the "Globally Important Agricultural Heritage Systems" (GIAHS) list. This prestigious blue certification, awarded on October 31, 2025, marks the second GIAHS recognition for Huzhou, following the earlier award for the "Mulberry-Dyke and Fish-Pond System" in 2017. With this addition, China now boasts a total of 25 GIAHS listings, solidifying its position as the leading nation in agricultural heritage recognition worldwide.

The Deqing fishery system is a testament to sustainable aquaculture, effectively integrating various aquatic species to maintain ecological balance while promoting economic benefits. Dating back approximately 800 years to the Southern Song Dynasty, Deqing has a rich legacy of artificial freshwater pearl cultivation, and this recognition highlights the cultural significance and historical depth of the region's aquaculture practices. The successful integration of traditional methods with modern sustainability practices underscores the potential for this heritage to thrive in today’s economy while ensuring environmental health.

During the UN GeoNow event held on October 22 in Deqing, FAO's Director of Digitalization and Informatics, Dejan Jakovljevic, underscores the role of digital technology in preserving heritage. He emphasizes that merging digital innovation with traditional practices can enhance the sustainability of the ancient pearl-harvesting ecosystem. This integration not only honors generations of knowledge but also opens avenues for international collaboration, particularly in developing the "pearl +" industrial chain. By promoting Jiangnan pearls on a global scale, Deqing aims to connect its rich cultural heritage with modern economic opportunities.

In addition to this recognition, the emphasis on digitalization reflects a broader trend within the aquaculture industry, where technology plays a pivotal role in improving production efficiency and sustainability. For companies like Pilgrim’s Pride, which operates within the broader food production sector, these developments signal an increasing consumer demand for sustainably sourced products that honor both tradition and innovation.

As Deqing embraces its newly awarded GIAHS status, it sets a precedent for other regions engaged in aquaculture to explore similar paths of integration between heritage and modern practices. This milestone not only enhances Deqing's reputation but also contributes to a growing global movement towards sustainable agriculture, highlighting the importance of preserving cultural heritage while adapting to contemporary challenges.