Jiuquan Onions

Jiuquan Onions

Jiuquan onions are a protected geographical indication product.

Jiuquan onions are a certified geographical indication trademark.

　　There is a saying in the industry: “When it comes to onions in China, look to Gansu; when it comes to onions in Gansu, look to Jiuquan.” This high praise for Jiuquan onions is inseparable from their unique natural conditions.

　　 Jiuquan lies between longitude [omitted] and latitude 39°10′～39°59′, with an elevation of 1340 meters to 2200 meters. The climate here is characterized by strong solar radiation, abundant sunshine, cold winters and cool summers, large diurnal temperature variations, short frost-free periods, low precipitation, and dry conditions, along with significant vertical climatic differences. The area receives 3033–3317 hours of sunshine annually. The average annual temperature is 5–8°C, with a frost-free period of 140–160 days and annual precipitation of 50–200 mm. These conditions result in onions of high quality, with a rich dry matter content and excellent storage capability.

　　 The onion planting area in Jiuquan has remained stable at around 160,000 mu, with an annual output of 1 million tons — accounting for one-tenth of the country’s total onion production. It has become China’s largest high-quality onion production base. To build the “Jiuquan Onions” brand, under the guidance of the Jiuquan municipal government, a “Five Unifications and One Standardization” brand development strategy was implemented. This includes “unified brand trademarks, unified packaging specifications, unified quality standards, unified balanced market release, and unified vehicle dispatch for distribution,” as well as standardized market order for onions. “Jiuquan Onions” has been designated by the Gansu Provincial Department of Commerce as the unified provincial brand for onions. The Jiuquan Entry-Exit Inspection and Quarantine Bureau has provided strong support to onion export enterprises over the years, helping Jiuquan onions reach international markets and gain global recognition. On August 24, 2009, the Jiuquan Municipal People’s Government hosted the first China “Jiuquan Onions” Festival, further promoting the “Jiuquan Onions” brand.

　　The production area of Jiuquan onions covers the following administrative regions currently under the jurisdiction of Jiuquan City, Gansu Province: Sandun Town, Qingshui Town, Jinfo Temple Town, Yinda Town, Xidong Town, Zongzhai Town, Shangba Town, Xifeng Township, Quanhu Township, Guoyuan Township, Fengle Township, Huajian Township, Xiaheqing Township, Dongdong Township, and Huangnibao Township in Suzhou District.