Lin Henggui (Left) and Zhuang Huosheng (Right) inspecting a fermentation tank

In the coastal village of Qianbian'ao in Pingtan, the warm greeting between Lin Henggui and Zhuang Huosheng is a testament to a partnership that has spanned over four decades. The duo, who co-founded Hengsheng (Pingtan) Biotechnology Co., Ltd., stand proudly in front of their company, adorned with a plaque that reads "Fujian-Taiwan Science and Technology Cooperation Base," awarded by the Fujian Provincial Department of Science and Technology.

Lin, a native of Pingtan, and Zhuang from Taiwan, have come together to not only build a business but also to foster a deep bond that transcends geographical boundaries. Their story began in the summer of 1982 when Lin, then only 16, met Zhuang, who was 30. What started as a simple transaction over the price of yellow croaker fish has evolved into a lifelong friendship and a thriving business venture.

"Back then, I was just a young fisherman eager to sell my catch, and Zhuang was a newcomer looking to make a mark in the seafood business," recalls Lin with a nostalgic smile. "His interest in my fish and the quality I offered was the beginning of a beautiful partnership."

Zhuang's influence extended beyond mere trade; he introduced abalone farming techniques to Pingtan, igniting a spark that would grow into a full-fledged industry. "Zhuang is not just a friend; he's a pioneer who brought in the entire abalone industry chain, from farming to processing and export," says Lin with admiration.

In 2007, their collaboration took a significant leap forward with the establishment of their company, focusing on the production of fish enzymes used to cultivate sea mustard greens, a superior feed for abalone. "The abalone fed with sea mustard greens grow faster and have a richer taste," explains Lin.

The secret to their success lies in a unique fermentation process developed by the pair, which Lin admits he knew nothing about before Zhuang's patient guidance. "I had no idea what fish enzyme was or how to produce it, but Zhuang taught me everything," he says.

Their abalone, renowned for its quality and taste, quickly gained popularity, leading to a surge in exports. "Last year, we exported over 600 tons of abalone to Taiwan, and this year we are aiming for over 800 tons," Zhuang proudly states.

Over the course of 42 years, Lin and Zhuang have transformed from simple seafood traders to innovators in abalone farming and technology. Now, with the construction of a larger factory and the purchase of new equipment, they are poised to expand their abalone processing industry.

"With decades of experience and our complementary skills, I handle the farming techniques, and Zhuang takes care of market operations. We are confident about strengthening and expanding the abalone farming, processing, and export industry in Pingtan," says Lin, looking forward to a future of continued success and collaboration.

Their story is a beacon of hope for cross-Straits relations, showcasing the power of cooperation and the potential for mutual prosperity through shared endeavors.