An abalone produced in Nanri Island. [Photo by Ma Tianqi for Putian Release]

For over 20 years, artificially cultivated abalone from Nanri Island in Putian, Fujian province, has experienced continued popularity. The widespread adoption of large-scale artificial cultivation has not only transformed abalone from a rare seafood into a common delicacy in coastal areas but has also brought prosperity to the once impoverished Nanri Island.

Located in the Taiwan Strait, Nanri Island's surrounding waters, characterized by moderate salinity and temperature, provide an ideal environment for abalone growth.

Since 1997, the introduction of superior abalone breeds for breeding experiments has led to the cultivation of the Nanri abalone, renowned for its tender meat and exceptional flavor. This success has established a model for large-scale abalone aquaculture, making Nanri abalone a cornerstone of the aquaculture sector in Xiuyu district and Putian.

Nanri Island has developed an industrial chain covering technology, seedlings, cultivation, processing, sales and leisure. With nearly 20,000 plastic aquaculture rafts for abalone farming, the industry involves approximately 5,200 laborers and has catalyzed the engagement of around 15,000 people in surrounding townships. In 2023, the town's abalone farming area reached 1,000 mu (66.67 hectares), yielding over 6,800 metric tons of abalone annually with an estimated value of around 900 million yuan ($124.4 million).

The impact of the small abalone has been profound, improving the quality of life for island residents and drawing tourists to the island's fishing village.

Zhang Xiongbin, a young entrepreneur who returned to his hometown to operate a seafood restaurant on the island, said that the improved transportation facilities and living environment have led to a surge in tourism, and his restaurant often struggles to accommodate all its customers, especially during holidays. According to incomplete statistics, over 300,000 people visited Nanri Island for sightseeing and leisure activities last year.

To foster the integrated growth of fishing and tourism, Xiuyu district and Nanri town have combined products such as Nanri abalone, seaweed, and kelp to offer a diverse array of delicacies and summer island cultural and tourism activities from May to October each year.