A host sells local fruits during a live-streaming session in Rugao, Nantong, Jiangsu province. [Photo/Nantong Daily]

The "Taste of Rugao" platform, launched in October last year by Rugao's agriculture and rural affairs bureau, connects local agricultural products with consumers through an innovative e-commerce approach. It allows customers to order via a WeChat mini-program and pick up their purchases at 14 self-service stations or the experience store, ensuring the freshness of products with advanced temperature control systems.

In the first seven months of 2024, Rugao's agricultural e-commerce sales increased by more than 20 percent year-on-year, with the "Taste of Rugao" platform contributing around 3 million yuan ($421,132.85) in sales from January to August.

Despite positive results, the platform has received feedback on delivery speed, which Rugao's agricultural and forestry technology and information center addresses through partnerships with logistics providers like Meituan and SF Express to improve delivery times.

E-commerce in Rugao is boosting agricultural sales and empowering local talent. Livestreaming initiatives have enabled farmers to reach broader audiences, contributing to rural vitalization and driving the digital transformation of traditional agriculture.