The annual seaweed harvest has started in Xiapu county in Fujian, known as China's "Seaweed Capital". [Photo by Zhu Shigang/For chinadaily.com.cn]

The annual seaweed harvest in Xiapu county in Fujian, known as China's "Seaweed Capital", started recently in its 23,000 hectares of marine farms, which have grown into a pillar industry for the county.

In 2024, the seaweed production exceeded 1.6 million metric tons, with a total output value reaching 3.5 billion yuan ($479 million), according to the latest data from the local government. Besides, the seaweed industry has become a key pillar of the county's marine economy, providing jobs for more than 50,000 people and benefiting over 150,000 residents, it added.