Huajuhong, a throat-soothing and cough-relieving fruit from Huazhou in Guangdong, recently gained national attention during China's "two sessions." After China's Vice Foreign Minister Hua Chunying tried a Huajuhong candy during the meetings in Beijing, praising it as one of the best throat-soothing products she had tasted, the little fruit drew a lot of attention.
For David Cobo, an Ecuadorian student in Guangdong, the story with Huajuhong is more personal. From planting a "Huajuhong International Tree" with National People's Congress deputy Liao Zhilue to tasting Huajuhong candies, his journey traces how a local specialty can connect cultures. This story was also brought to Beijing, where it became a model for rural revitalization and traditional industry development.
Today, the industry has developed nearly 200 processed products exported to more than 30 countries and regions. In 2025, Huazhou's Huajuhong industry chain surpassed 12.6 billion yuan, supporting jobs and incomes for about 350,000 people.
Through this fruit and its related products, David discovered not only new flavours, but also a deeper connection between China and the world.
Reporter: Dai Bosi
Video & Poster: Zeng Xiangxing
