On December 6, Changzhou issued Several Policies on Promoting High-Quality Development of the Catering Industry as the city was lately awarded the Capital of Jiangnan Cuisine by the World Federation of Chinese Catering Industry (WFCCI).

Historically, Changzhou has been situated with abundant waterways, nurturing prosperous industries, businesses, and a large number of literati and scholars.

The city’s rich cultural heritage fostered a profound culinary culture. Over the years, Changzhou’s catering industry, with its unique features, has been constantly improving services, food quality, and a distinct identity.

A new culinary pattern has been shaped with different types of restaurants dedicated to different customer groups, through the fusion of Chinese and foreign cuisines, while demonstrating the characteristics of the Jiangnan region.

Involving more than 40,000 companies and 200,000 employees, the turnover of Changzhou’s catering industry reached 32.43 billion yuan in 2021, an increase of 21.8 percent over 2020. There were 37 Famous Restaurants and 35 chefs with national recognition.

Through hosting the annual “Promoting Changzhou Cuisine� event since 2013, establishing the Changzhou Cuisine Research Institute, and identifying ten of the most iconic Changzhou dishes, the city has distinguished its cuisine industry with excellence in taste, fusion, innovation, and service. Through evaluation, exhibition, competition, public voting, and other activities, Changzhou has branded itself as a must-go food destination.

This year, during the implementation of the city’s �?32� development strategy, Changzhou launched the "Capital of Jiangnan Cuisine" program to showcase the charm of Changzhou food. This was done along with other projects such as the Longcheng Shopping Festival which issued 14 million yuan of consumer vouchers, and iconic restaurant clusters in Hanjiang Road, Injoy Plaza, and other places. There were also writing contests, interview and talk shows, and interactive live-streaming events highlighting Changzhou food.

In late August, Changzhou passed the evaluation process of Capital of Jiangnan Cuisine by the expert panel from the WFCCI.

A city of gastronomy brings happiness to its people. The catering industry of Changzhou, being inclusive and creative, will continue to promote the city’s new identity as the Capital of Jiangnan Cuisine.