Rudong elevates clam industry with innovation and tradition
Renowned for its iconic seafood, the Chinese razor clam, Rudong has successfully leveraged its rich intertidal mudflats to build a robust clam industry. Recognized as a China Geographical Indication product in 2014, Rudong clams are prized for their nutritional value, tender texture, and economic significance, ranking among the county's top exports.
To maximize its resources, Rudong has modernized clam farming practices, integrating breeding, cultivation, distribution, and processing into a streamlined system. Artificial seedling trials have been introduced to mitigate natural risks, while farming techniques have continuously evolved to enhance efficiency and profitability. Rudong currently boasts approximately 22,000 hectares of mudflats suitable for clam farming.
In response to labor shortages and safety concerns in clam harvesting, Rudong has pioneered mechanical harvesting technology. The new machines have proven 10 to 30 times more efficient than traditional manual methods, with a harvesting success rate of over 95 percent and minimal shell breakage. This breakthrough has significantly boosted productivity and reduced operational risks.
Rudong's clam industry also highlights a unique local product – clam oil, a traditional skincare balm packaged in clam shells. Produced exclusively by the Yangkouzha Daily Chemical Factory in Zhaxi village, this artisanal product exudes coastal cultural charm. Its production involves meticulous shell processing, oil blending, and packaging, yielding approximately 12,000 boxes annually. Clam oil is popular across China, with key markets in Zhejiang, Heilongjiang, Yunnan, Sichuan, Jiangxi, and Guangdong.