Malaysia Tongnan Lemon Trading Center Opens in Kuala Lumpur, Boosting Local Lemon Exports

Chongqing - On September 10, the Malaysia Tongnan Lemon Trading Center opened in Kuala Lumpur, marking a pivotal move in bringing Chongqing's Tongnan lemons to overseas markets and strengthening cultural connections between China and Malaysia.

The center serves as a hub for showcasing, trading, and business. Visitors can negotiate deals, purchase Tongnan lemon products, and experience its "ecology, technology, and culture." 

"I hope the center becomes a new platform for bringing Tongnan lemons into Malaysia," said Wen Tianping, secretary of the Chongqing Tongnan District Committee. "Malaysian friends who haven't tried Tongnan lemons could come and experience them here—I’m sure you’ll love them!"

As China and Malaysia celebrate 50 years of diplomatic ties this year, Wen envisions the center expanding trade, deepening cultural connections, and serving as a two-way investment platform, bringing Tongnan products to Malaysia and facilitating Malaysian goods' entry into Southwest China.

The lemon products were on display in the Malaysia Tongnan Lemon Trading Center. (Photo/Tongnan District)

The center offers lemon products, including probiotic-infused lemons and freeze-dried slices, highlighting recent advancements in Tongnan’s lemon processing. The sleek design and inviting atmosphere have attracted many residents.

“Lemons are essential in daily cooking,” said a Kuala Lumpur resident who enjoys their sweet and sour flavor in dishes. “I’d love to visit Tongnan someday!” The center simplifies purchasing Tongnan lemons and exploring its diverse products and culture.

Wen highlighted that Tongnan lemons, a top domestic and international product, are exported to over 30 countries and regions, making up 45% of China's lemon exports. 

With its ideal climate and soil at 30 degrees north latitude, Tongnan excels as a leading lemon producer and innovator. It houses Western China's first virus-free lemon seedling center.

Tongnan Business Promotion Conference for the Green Eco-city was held in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, on 10 September 2024. (Photo/Tongnan District)

The center is just one of the results of economic cooperation between Malaysia and Tongnan. On September 9, the Tongnan trade delegation arrived in Malaysia. 

In an interview, Wen highlighted Tongnan's commitment to enhancing investment and trade with Malaysia through the New International Land-Sea Trade Corridor (ILSTC). 

Tongnan's Snow King Agriculture and other firms signed over ten agreements with Malaysian and Vietnamese companies at the event. The delegation will also explore further opportunities in Malaysia, focusing on digital agriculture, education, and tourism.

Chinese beverage giant MIXUE Ice Cream & Tea established Snow King Agriculture in Tongnan, recognizing the superior quality of Tongnan lemons. Last year, MIXUE sold 1.25 billion cups of lemonade globally and has rapidly emerged as a leader in Southeast Asia's tea beverage market.

For brands like MIXUE, securing high-quality raw materials abroad is crucial, as domestic ingredients are superior but costly to transport. The center's launch enables easier export of Tongnan lemons to Malaysia, easing MIXUE's supply chain challenges.