URGENT UPDATE: In a landmark decision, the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) has officially recognized Deqing’s “Freshwater Pear Mussels Composite Fishery System” as part of its prestigious Globally Important Agricultural Heritage Systems (GIAHS) list. The announcement was made on October 31, 2025, during a ceremony in Rome, Italy, marking a significant achievement for the region of Huzhou, Zhejiang Province.
This recognition is not just a badge of honor; it elevates China’s GIAHS count to 25, solidifying its position as the leading nation in this global initiative. Deqing’s fishery system is lauded for its sustainable practices that have thrived for over 800 years, tracing back to the Southern Song Dynasty.
The composite fishery system integrates multiple aquatic species, maintaining a natural ecological balance while generating economic benefits. This development is crucial as it showcases a sustainable model that harmonizes environmental preservation with local livelihoods.
During the recent UN GeoNow event held in Deqing, FAO’s Director of Digitalization and Informatics, Dejan Jakovljevic, emphasized the connection between digital technology and heritage conservation. He stated,
“We can use digital tools and modern technology to provide scientific support for heritage protection, sustainably safeguard the millennium-old pearl-harvesting ecosystem, and promote the Deqing Freshwater Pear Mussels Composite Fishery System.”
This innovative approach is poised to breathe new life into Deqing’s pearl industry, enhancing its global profile.
The GIAHS designation not only honors the rich cultural heritage of pearl cultivation but also opens avenues for international collaboration. As Deqing embraces digital innovation, it aims to rejuvenate agricultural heritage while expanding the “pearl +” industrial chain, promoting Jiangnan pearls to a worldwide audience.
For Deqing, this moment is both a celebration of tradition and a step toward a technologically advanced future. The integration of heritage and modernity is set to transform the region’s agricultural landscape, ensuring that its rich legacy continues to thrive in a globalized world.
As developments unfold, the impact of this recognition will be closely watched, with expectations of an increased focus on sustainable practices in aquaculture and heritage preservation. Stay tuned as we follow this story and its implications for Deqing and beyond.
