Recently, a containership loaded with Australian lobsters docked at Ningbo Beilun International Container Terminal. Via a green channel provided by Ningbo Customs District, this batch of fresh lobsters stored in refrigerated containers went through clearance process quickly and then went to Chinese festival market at the earliest time.

The two holidays of Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day coming in succession have given strong festive atmosphere around Ningbo. “Imported foods sell well before the holidays, this year’s sales much more than last year, and we have sufficient stocks,” said Business Manager Li Zhifeng of Shanghai Sea Hog Imports and Exports Co., Ltd., who was quite confident about the festival market situation, “Continuous improvements in Ningbo Port hardware and Customs clearance efficiency have ensured the freshness of our imported foods, eliminating our worries.”

Continuous improvement of the people’s living standard has brought changes to their consumption level, concept and dietary habits. As a result, various imported foods known as “West-style foods” have become more and more popular among the citizens, such as Australian lobsters, Alaskan king crabs, cherries from New Zealand, oranges from South Africa, Andean beef, etc.

To ensure the freshness of the imported foods, the Customs District has set up a “green” clearance channel to give priority to imported foods, with faster inspection and release on the premise of rigorous control, thus securing the supply of the imported for the holidays.

According to statistics, CNY5.44 billion worth of foods were imported through Ningbo Port during January-August, up 13.4% year-on-year; affected by the upcoming holidays, CNY720 million worth of foods were imported in August only, up 39.9% year-on-year.