Located in the Changbai Mountain region, Tonghua benefits from a favorable climate, fertile soil and a forest coverage rate exceeding 66.6 percent — ideal conditions for cultivating forest-grown ginseng. To advance the industry, Tonghua has adopted a new development path focused on rational forest land use, high-quality seed breeding, digital management and brand building.

"Tonghua is the first in the country to complete a comprehensive survey of forest land suitable for ginseng cultivation," Sun said. "Based on factors such as canopy density, slope gradient and soil quality, 60,920 hectares of suitable forest land have been classified into three levels and nine grades, ensuring the highest quality ginseng is grown in the best soil."

To ensure sustainable development, the city has implemented a registration system for forest-grown ginseng plantations. This system enables scientific planning and efficient use of forest resources based on market demand and annual production.

Tonghua has also signed strategic agreements with research institutions, enterprises and expert teams to promote ginseng seed conservation, breeding, and distribution.

Currently, a seed base is under construction, comprising 36 plots spanning 304.5 hectares. In addition, the city has developed a digital platform to monitor the entire ginseng production cycle, from planting to processing and sales.

Sun noted that it is the first platform in China to use satellite remote sensing technology for managing ginseng plantations. "With this platform, all ginseng produced in the city is fully traceable, giving consumers confidence in the quality of our products," he said.

Over the years, Tonghua has partnered with leading ginseng enterprises, leveraging their advanced technologies, financial resources, market networks and innovative practices to enhance the entire industry chain.

"We are also working to establish well-known ginseng stores and flagship outlets while collaborating with Chinese e-commerce giant JD.com to launch online stores," Sun said.

The city is also applying for a national geographic indication certification trademark to strengthen the Tonghua Ginseng brand.