Analysis of the contribution of Liuzhou's local specialty food (Liuzhou Luosifen) policy to regional economic development

Abstract

The city of Liuzhou, China, has developed a local specialty food policy since 2016 which today is considered one of the most successful local food policies in China and a best practice at international level. Liuzhou Luosifen (Liuzhou snail rice noodle), a famous traditional Chinese snack, boasts a unique combination of sour, spicy, fresh and fragrant flavors. In 2022, the pre-packaged Liuzhou Luosifen sales revenue reached 18.2 billion yuan, exported to 28 countries and regions. The purpose of this study is to analyze the contribution of Liuzhou local characteristic food policy implementation process on the regional economy. The review highlights key information on the product background, the policy formulation, the industrial standardization, and the policy implementation. The social groups and leading enterprises have been important drivers of the product standards and formulation of the policy, while the processing and transportation flow of standardized products, are essential for the integration of regional economies (tourism, production, transport, marketing, etc.). Although the specialty food industry chain has comprehensively driven the development of the regional economy, it is still necessary to carefully consider the joint development of new markets and new social practices.

Keywords

• specialty food
• liuzhou luosifen
• food policy
• food industry chain
• regional economy.