A seaweed cultivation base in Qidong, a county-level city of Nantong. [Photo/Nantong Daily]

In the first four months of this year, 315 batches of seaweeds, totaling 571.25 metric tons, were exported worldwide under the supervision of Qidong Customs, with both figures rising by 24 percent year-on-year.

To help enterprises safeguard quality, Qidong Custom sent key personnel to the seaweed cultivation base in Lyusi Sea to guide on improving the self-inspection and self-control system.

Other facilitation measures, such as online issuance of certificates, appointment-based inspection and inspection upon application, have helped Qidong seaweed reach global markets without delay.

With such measures, Qidong Jinhe Food Co saw a steady rise in its exports. From January to April of 2026, the company exported 47 batches of seaweeds, worth 25.67 million yuan ($3.78 million), up 51.6 percent and 30.6 percent, respectively, from the previous year.

Expanding into global markets requires high-quality products and a strong understanding of international trade rules. Therefore, Qidong Customs took the initiative to explain international standards and related rules to enterprises.

With such assistance, Nantong Huaxin Foods Co expanded into Australia this year. During the Jan-April period, the value of its seaweed exports reached 9.57 million yuan, a 150 percent increase from the previous year.

From being cultivated on tidal flats to reaching tables overseas, from basic raw materials to a premium brand, Qidong seaweeds have been sold in more than 40 countries and regions worldwide, with growth in both annual output and brand value.