Workers process ham at Jinzi Ham Super Factory in Jinhua. [Photo/Tide News]

The Jinhua City Ham Industry Development Promotion Ordinance was enacted on Aug 7, aiming to invigorate Jinhua's traditional ham industry in Zhejiang province.

Jinhua ham, with a history of over 1,200 years dating back to the Tang Dynasty (618-907), is a national geographic indication product and one of China's four renowned hams.

The industry in Jinhua covers breeding, slaughtering, processing, sales, brand building, and cultural promotion. In 2025, Jinhua's ham production reached 4.6 million, generating an output of 2.79 billion yuan ($413.67 million) of the entire industrial chain.

Developed over six years, the ordinance emphasizes both tradition and innovation. It sets comprehensive regulations for production, integrating traditional and modern techniques, and establishes a full-process system from raw materials to finished products.

The ordinance also designates the week when Start of Winter, the 19th solar term of a year, falls as Jinhua Ham Brand Promotion Week to showcase its historical charm and traditional crafts.

Innovation is highlighted in the ordinance by encouraging collaboration among production, academia, and research. It supports modern technologies like bio-fermentation and digital management and promotes new ham products to meet diverse consumer needs.

Additionally, the ordinance imposes penalties for counterfeiting and requires departments to collaborate in fighting infringement, aiming to tackle industry issues and promote a fair marketplace.