The International Mushroom Days 2024, held from April 22-24 in Xiamen, Fujian Province, underscored China’s pivotal role in the global mushroom industry. The event, organized by the Chinese Chamber of Commerce for Import and Export of Foodstuffs, Native Produce, and Animal By-products (CFNA), brought together 700 participants, including government officials, leading mushroom production company executives, scientists, and professional buyers from supermarkets and the gastronomy sector.
Lujun Zhang, a substrate supplier, highlighted China’s mushroom production as having “the fastest growth rate in the world.” The data supports his claim, with certain mushroom varieties such as Lyophyllum decastes and Oudemansiella raphanipies seeing annual yield increases of over 5%. These gains are attributed to enhanced cultivation techniques and the selection of suitable varieties, allowing for the successful artificial production of previously difficult-to-cultivate mushrooms like porcini, morels, cordyceps, and bamboo mushrooms.
The event featured two significant conferences: the “1st International Conference of the Special Mushroom Industry” and the “1st Conference on the Development of the Edible Mushroom Industry,” focusing on the theory of circular production of plants, animals, and mushrooms. These conferences aimed to foster communication between enterprises, the government, universities, research institutions, and the trade sector. Key discussion points included information exchange, technology, talent, products, and distribution channels.
The exhibition was divided into two main sections: the Innovation Hall for Intelligent Manufacturing and the Promotion Hall for the Mushroom Industry. It showcased 11 categories of products and services, including mushroom cultivation, raw material supply, intelligent technology, environmental sustainability, energy management, cold chain logistics, and product processing and distribution channels.
A notable trend discussed during the event was the increasing automation in mushroom production. Zhang noted that despite the traditional, farmer-dominated production model with low specialization levels, the industry is moving towards higher automation due to labor shortages and rising labor costs. In 2024, at least three modern shiitake mushroom factories are planned, indicating a significant shift towards automated processes.
The rapid development of China’s mushroom industry is not only transforming domestic production but also influencing global markets. The collaboration fostered at the International Mushroom Days is expected to further accelerate innovation and efficiency within the industry.
The International Mushroom Days 2024 highlighted the remarkable growth and potential of China’s mushroom industry. With advancements in cultivation techniques, increasing automation, and enhanced collaboration among key stakeholders, China is set to continue its leadership in the global mushroom market. The event served as a vital platform for information exchange and technological innovation, promising a bright future for the industry.
