Crates of red bayberries were being unloaded on July 4 at Luohu Port in Shenzhen, Guangdong province, destined for over 500 supermarkets in countries like Singapore and Vietnam.

Surprisingly, this fresh fruit from Qingtian county in Lishui, East China's Zhejiang province, was harvested in mid-June.

Traditionally, red bayberries spoil quickly, lasting only 2-3 days even with vacuum packaging and ice packs. However, Hong Dongfang — a red bayberry grower in Qingtian's Zhongqiao village — and his team have extended their freshness to 25 days using high-tech containers.

The Qingtian red bayberries that are put into high-tech containers for shipping still keep their freshness. [Photo/Tide News]

The containers maintain a temperature of -6 degrees Celsius with a controlled electromagnetic field, slowing the fruit's respiration and keeping them fresh. This innovation significantly reduces transportation costs by allowing red bayberries to be shipped via land and sea, cutting costs to about 6 yuan (84 cents) per kilogram — a tenth of air freight costs.

Additionally, the introduction of the "Zhenong Code" for traceability has boosted overseas sales and repeat purchases of Qingtian red bayberries. By scanning this code, consumers can trace the fruit's origin, enhancing brand trust and market value.

The initiative has increased the fruit's price by 20 percent and sales by 30 percent, with notable growth in overseas markets.