Dole China has entered a strategic partnership protocol with Chongqing-based Golden Orchard Trading Co., marking expansion from a strategy that used to be mainly focused on working with distributors in Guangzhou and other wholesale markets. 

The move comes hot on the heels of a sole distributor deal signed between Golden Orchard and Zespri not so long ago for southwestern China, which includes the provinces of Sichuan, Yunnan, Tibet and Guizhou.

The latest agreement, signed on April 28, means Dole will be able to strengthen its wholesale distribution channels in the country's southwest, and will guide the way for all kinds of premium fruits sourced from around the world.

Dole China business director Zhang Chao said Golden Orchard brought a strong sales network and a well-recognized brand image, which were condusive to the company's development in the region.

Golden Orchard, a large wholesale-centered imported and domestic fruit company, has long been active in the business of upstream procurement and brand management. It has a considerable wholesale network in the region and in other second-tier wholesale markets.

At the signing ceremony, the company's chairman Huang Zhigang said the cooperation meant more premium fruits from abroad would be able to arrive at the dinner tables of local residents, with guaranteed freshness and affordable prices.

At the same time, he promised to strictly follow food safety laws and regulations in order to provide the best and safest fruits for the local market.

Chongqing Fruit Association president Zhao Xiurong congratulated the two parties on their mutually beneficial strategic partnership, describing it as a significant move that would enrich fruit supplies for the entire region.

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