With the help of modern commercial operations, the center wants to inject fresh energy into businesses producing the traditional delicacies. More overseas Chinese have shown an interest in this and representatives from businesses in France and Malaysia have visited China for training, Zhang said.

"We will try our best to make Shaxian delicacies an iconic Chinese brand with a worldwide influence," he added.

Li Xianjin, who runs the first Shaxian Snacks franchised restaurant in Sanming city, has witnessed the development of the local delicacies.

He said he is very happy with the standardized management for his business. "A unified brand and improved decor has brought me more customers. It's necessary for the brand to establish certain standards. Only by doing this can it become more attractive," Li said.

Yang, the county Party chief, said the local government wants to continue upgrading the production of Shaxian delicacies to build an industry that helps promote high-quality development in the county.

"We are confident of turning small businesses into a big industry, and that more and more people will benefit from the industrial chains," he said.