The China-EU Agreement on Geographical Indications officially entered into force on March 1, 2021. It is China's first bilateral comprehensive and high-level agreement on the protection of geographical indications (GIs), and an important and practical outcome in the development of China-EU economic and trade relations in recent years.

We will continue to introduce to you the first batch of 100 Chinese GIs and 100 European GIs under the Agreement, to better protect and market them to meet the needs of consumers on both sides for a better life.

GI Episode 22: Fangxian Shiitake Mushroom

Fangxian County is located in the deep mountains of the northwest of Hubei Province, and on the golden line of fungus and shiitake mushroom production. As a production base of fungus and shiitake mushroom well known across the country, Fangxian County has been cultivating and consuming shiitake mushrooms since Tang Dynasty and accumulated rich experience. Fangxian shiitake mushroom was once designated as an imperial tribute, and today it has made a stunning appearance in the CCTV food documentary series titled A Bite of China. Sold across the world, it is very popular among eaters.  

Fangxian shiitake mushrooms are round in shape and thick in meat with deep rough lines and short stipe. The mushrooms taste smooth, delicate and aromatic. The very nutritious mushrooms with a unique flavor are called the most meat-like vegetable. Shiitake mushrooms can be the main food or act as a supporting character for chicken and beef to make choice dishes.

Fangxian County in recent years has been leveraging its advantages to promote industrialized development of edible fungus by building edible fungus industrial parks and involving big companies in deep processing of shiitake mushrooms. These measures have not only helped local residents get rid of poverty, but also enabled Fangxian to take a big step forward in intensive production and brand building.