Taiwan compatriot Liu Renxing checks the growth of Taiwan's grass jelly plants.

Pingtan, located off the coast of Fujian province, is the closest place on the mainland to the island of Taiwan. It serves as a comprehensive pilot zone focused on cross-Straits integration, a key area for international trade and logistics, and China's second international tourism island following Hainan.

Recently, Liu Renxing, a Taiwan compatriot, saw the first harvest of the latest Taiwanese grass jelly plant variety "Taoyuan No. 3" which he had trial-planted in the fields of Fujian Pingxing Agricultural Development Co., Ltd. in Daping Village of Pingtan. The climate and soil in Pingtan are suitable for its growth. This low-growing variety, with high typhoon resistance, can be harvested twice a year. The yield this year has exceeded expectations.

Liu Renxing has a strong interest in grass jelly plants. He also explores green planting methods, using discarded ingredients from the nearby market to make enzymes, reducing the use of traditional fertilizers and pesticides, and growing healthier crops.

Earlier this year, an integrated grass jelly plant industry project was launched. Led by the Fujian Provincial Association for Energy Conservation and Environmental Protection Technology Services, it leverages resources from Wuping (Fujian), Pingyuan (Guangdong), and Hsinchu (Taiwan). This collaboration has accelerated planting, R&D, and market cooperation, injecting impetus into his endeavors.

The successful trial planting of Taiwan's grass jelly plant has also brought new opportunities to Daping Village. Zeng Huajun, secretary of the village Party general branch, said that negotiations are underway with major growers and villagers in the village, and there are plans to promote the planting of more than 30 mu (about 2 hectares) to broaden the income channels for villagers.