KUNMING, July 21 (Xinhua) — Marcelo Vergaray is a 31-year-old fourth-generation Chinese-Peruvian immigrant from Peru.
Driven by his agricultural passion, he came to Mengzi, a city in the Honghe Hani and Yi Autonomous Prefecture of southwest China’s Yunnan Province, taking up the role of production manager at Hortifrut and Joyvio, a joint venture agricultural technology company. Here, he collaborates with a professional team to manage blueberry plantations.
The unique natural conditions in Mengzi make it suitable for blueberry cultivation, distinguished by a long picking season that starts in November and lasts until late May or early June the following year. This harvest period strategically fills a gap in domestic and international blueberry markets.
With his expertise, Vergaray has introduced new technologies and blueberry varieties to Mengzi, enhancing production efficiency and reducing costs. Additionally, he focuses on improving fruit quality to cater to market demands in China.
“I compare blueberries to my daughters. They are beautiful and precious,” Vergaray said.
Vergaray’s deep-rooted affection for the Chinese culture began in his childhood. He actively participated in activities such as dragon and lion dances in Peru. After moving to China in 2017, he immersed himself in learning Mandarin and engaging with colleagues and friends to deepen his understanding of Chinese culture.
Since then, he has actively participated in numerous cultural activities. And now he has a family with a Chinese wife and a nine-month-old child.
Looking ahead, Vergaray is optimistic about his future in China. “I believe my future lies here,” he said. “China’s economy is developing rapidly with an extensive market.”
Blueberry in Mengzi has also become a flagship plateau agricultural product of Yunnan with the combined efforts of Chinese and international enterprises. The blueberry output in Mengzi last year reached 22,000 tonnes, with the total value exceeding 2 billion yuan (about 276 million US dollars). By the first half of 2024, the total fruit-bearing area for blueberries had reached 22,500 mu (1,500 hectares) in Mengzi.
Photographers: Chen Xinbo, Zeng Wei
Editors: Wang Qingqin, Meng Chenguang, Hu Zhixuan, Chu Jiayin, Zhou Dixiao, Cao Mengyao, Li Mangmang, Liu Yun, Mu Wenchun
China Story Studio■