Ulaanqab strawberries enter Middle Eastern market for first time

The interior of the Ulaanqab smart strawberry base. [Photo/Ulaanqab Cloud]

Strawberries produced by the Ulaanqab smart strawberry base in the city of Ulaanqab in North China's Inner Mongolia autonomous region made their debut in the Middle Eastern market on Nov 24, appearing on the shelves of high-end supermarket chains in the United Arab Emirates.

The smart strawberry base, spanning 23 mu (1.53 hectares), was completed and put into operation at the beginning of 2024. It operates 365 days a year.

The strawberries grown here are currently being supplied to the Beijing market.  

The base's annual output of strawberries is expected to reach 180 metric tons, with per-mu yields being 15 to 25 times higher than traditional open-field cultivation, showcasing the immense potential of smart agriculture.

Liu Xiangdong, head of the smart strawberry base, explained, "From planting to harvesting, the strawberries at this base are managed entirely through intelligent systems."

Strawberries from Ulaanqab are sold at a supermarket in the United Arab Emirates. [Photo/Ulaanqab Cloud]

The use of internet of things technology allows for the real-time monitoring of various environmental indicators. If any parameter exceeds the optimal range for strawberry growth, the system automatically activates the necessary equipment to make adjustments.

This meticulous management approach ensures the high-quality growth of the strawberries. As a result, the strawberries produced here are known for their rich aroma, delicate texture, and sweet, juicy flavor.

They have undergone rigorous testing by international authorities to ensure they are free of pesticide residues, hormone additives, and heavy metal contamination.

Strawberries from Ulaanqab are on sale in a supermarket in the United Arab Emirates. [Photo/Ulaanqab Cloud]