This milestone event marks a new chapter in the global expansion of Chinese cuisine and lays out an unprecedented strategic roadmap for advancing Chinese food supply chains on the international stage.

A Golden Era for Chinese Cuisine Going Global

“Chinese cuisine is entering a new phase of systematic and large-scale development,” stated Zhu Changliang, CEO of Wuhan Liangzhilong Food Inc. and founder of the Liangzhilong China Food Ingredients E-Commerce Festival, during his keynote address.

He emphasized that while the global expansion of Chinese cuisine presents unprecedented opportunities, it also faces significant challenges. These include insufficient integration across supply chains, leading to unstable ingredient supply and persistently high costs. Additionally, substantial differences in food standards, regulations, and cultural norms across countries and regions have made the international rollout of Chinese cuisine both complex and demanding.

He further emphasized, “For the Chinese cuisine supply chain to succeed globally, we must first master the fundamentals and adopt a long-term mindset.”

According to relevant data, the overseas Chinese cuisine market reached RMB 3 trillion in 2024. Over the past three years, the global Chinese dining sector has grown at an average annual rate of 11%, and it is projected to exceed USD 1.2 trillion this year. Currently, there are approximately 700,000 Chinese restaurants operating overseas, with more than 6,000 new establishments added in the first half of 2025 alone.

These figures clearly underscore the unprecedented growth opportunities emerging for Chinese cuisine in international markets.

“Why is Chinese cuisine able to thrive sustainably? Because it is a fusion of tradition and innovation,” said Steven Johnsons Tjan, CEO of Indonesian restaurant chain PT Petarung Semeja Sejati.

He noted that Chinese cuisine enjoys widespread popularity in international markets. His restaurant group, for example, offers a variety of fusion dishes inspired by Chinese cuisine. By innovating flavors and adopting localized strategies, they have successfully attracted diners from around the world.

In March 2024, China’s Ministry of Commerce, together with eight other government departments, jointly issued the Guidelines on Promoting High-Quality Development of the Catering Industry, which explicitly called for accelerating the global expansion of Chinese cuisine. This policy-level support has created strong momentum for Chinese food to “go global.”

However, taking Chinese cuisine abroad is far more complex than simply “sending well-made dumplings overseas.” At its core, a robust supply chain is essential—not only to ensure quality, but also to drive the standardization, internationalization, and scalability of Chinese cuisine.

“Chinese cuisine is entering a golden era of global expansion, and the supply chain is its foundation and soul,” said Zhou Wen, Secretary-General of the Ingredient Supply Chain Subcommittee of the China Chamber of Commerce for Import and Export of Foodstuffs, Native Produce and Animal By-products.

He emphasized that the stability and adaptability of the food ingredient supply chain are the driving forces enabling Chinese cuisine to shift from simply “going global” to achieving sustainable and long-term international success.

“You can’t hide an elephant behind a sapling—Chinese cuisine is that elephant,” said Wu Li, Vice President of the World Federation of Chinese Catering Industry. He emphasized that the international expansion of pre-prepared and pre-packaged Chinese foods, such as ready-made meals, is a key achievement of China’s food industry revolution and will not be hindered by outdated perceptions.

“Guangdong is a place where miracles happen. It was the first to enact legislation supporting the development of the pre-prepared food industry,” Wu noted. As the birthplace of China’s pre-prepared food sector, Guangdong has taken the national lead in systematically building out the industrial chain, firmly positioning itself as an industry front-runner. With its unique strengths, Guangdong is well placed to become the spearhead of China’s food industry on the global stage. Wu expressed hopes that the province would become a symbol of success for the international expansion of China’s pre-prepared food systems.

Challenges Remain on the Journey Ahead

As global demand for Chinese cuisine continues to rise, shortcomings in the international supply chain have become increasingly evident. According to Zhou Wen, the key hurdles facing Chinese cuisine’s global push can be summarized as three major challenges: lack of ingredient standardization, insufficient supply chain resilience, and difficulty in cultural adaptation.

For example, overseas markets impose diverse and often complex standards on food ingredients, and some traditional Chinese ingredients currently fail to meet export requirements due to processing limitations. In addition, high cross-border logistics costs and extended shipping times disrupt the consistency of supply. Finally, the localization of Chinese flavors to suit foreign palates requires strong capabilities in ingredient R&D and product adaptation—posing significant demands on suppliers seeking to compete globally.

Fortunately, a number of pioneers have emerged along the path of international expansion. Addressing the challenge of ingredient standardization, Dai Chenyu, Chairman of Baizhentang Biotechnology Co., Ltd., emphasized that only under standardized processes can food safety be maximized while also delivering nutritious and flavorful products.

Taking the company’s edible broth concentrate as an example, he explained that the entire production process—from simmering and processing to packaging—is fully automated and streamlined. The company has also taken the lead in developing industry standards for edible broth under the guidance of the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology. Dai believes that by leveraging deep industry expertise, a strong focus on technology, and an open approach to industry collaboration, the long-standing challenges of standardizing Chinese cuisine can be effectively overcome.

In addressing supply chain resilience, Shi Jingjing, Executive President of Panda Go Global, identified three critical factors: localization, compliance, and digitalization.

To localize ingredient sourcing, the company has built a dual-track procurement system, combining core ingredient imports with locally sourced alternatives to achieve effective ingredient localization. On the compliance front, efforts focus on food import registration and labeling standardization to meet the regulatory requirements of each target market. In terms of operations, the adoption of digital supply chain management, supported by local collaboration and technological enablement, has significantly enhanced overall supply chain resilience.

Addressing the challenge of cultural adaptation, Li Qiuguang, General Manager of Zhaoqing Evergreen Aquatic Product Science & Technology Co., Ltd., stressed the importance of adapting to local conditions.

“Different countries have different food standards,” Li noted during a roundtable discussion. “For example, some markets prohibit additives derived from animal products. That means flavor enhancers like chicken essence or lard can’t be used in international versions of our products.”

He also highlighted the importance of aligning branding with local culture. “For instance, when developing fish fillet products for overseas foodservice clients, we created a boneless product line to better resonate with local consumer preferences. These localized adaptations help drive stronger market acceptance.”

Overcoming the “Three Major Challenges” Doesn’t Guarantee a Smooth Landing

Successfully navigating the “three major hurdles” does not mean the journey is complete—far from it. According to He Guifen, Head of the Compliance Services Center at FoodPartnerNet, regulatory compliance remains a significant challenge for Chinese food companies going global.

For example, product compliance is a key concern: in markets such as Indonesia and Malaysia, Halal certification is required for many food products. In terms of compliance within the broader food-related supply chain, the United States does not require mandatory certification for food contact materials, but companies must still provide declarations of conformity to ensure product compliance.

“From another perspective,” He added, “regulatory compliance shouldn’t be feared. While it may represent a substantial upfront cost for going global, overcoming these challenges ultimately becomes a source of long-term competitive advantage.”

Four Key Trends Draw Industry Attention

From 2020 to 2024, the global Chinese cuisine market grew from RMB 227.548 billion to RMB 359.385 billion, and it is projected to reach USD 577.682 billion by 2030, showing a steady upward trajectory.

At the conference, Zhang Yi, CEO of iiMedia Research (Guangzhou) Co., Ltd., presented the 2025–2030 Market Outlook and Development Trends Report on the Global Expansion of Chinese Cuisine, which drew significant interest from attendees.

According to the report, four major trends are shaping the international development of the Chinese cuisine industry: localized integration, standardized management, international marketing, and digital operations. As a result, the global Chinese cuisine industrial chain is becoming increasingly robust and refined.

How Should These Trends Be Interpreted? Insights from Industry Experts Provide the Answer.

“Ingredient localization and direct resource connection are critical to the global expansion of Chinese cuisine,” said Zhu Dong, Vice President of Liangzhilong Group and General Manager of its International Business Division. He pointed out that the key challenges currently facing Chinese cuisine going global include localized integration, supply chain bottlenecks, and brand awareness.

Zhu emphasized that these challenges can be effectively addressed through measures such as localized ingredient sourcing, establishing local manufacturing facilities, and developing overseas warehouses, all of which support the integration of Chinese cuisine into local supply chains.

“Standardized management is essential for scaling and strengthening the Chinese cuisine supply chain,” added Li Qiuguang. He shared that Evergreen began implementing standardized processes early on while undertaking the Egypt Fisheries Industrial Park project. This included standardizing parameters for aquaculture techniques and production formulations.

The company sent Chinese technical experts to provide on-site guidance and hands-on training for local staff. Through continuous fieldwork and collaboration, the project successfully achieved full standardization in management and operations.

In Terms of International Marketing, AI Is Becoming a Strategic Enabler

Li Liaoyuan, Founder of Future Island AI, highlighted the importance of an AI-driven internationalization strategy, emphasizing a two-step approach: first exporting the brand, then exporting the product.

He explained that brand globalization can be accelerated by leveraging AI tools to increase brand visibility. This includes launching localized marketing initiatives and building new media accounts tailored to international audiences. Once brand awareness is established, the focus can shift to product globalization, which also relies on AI technologies for market adaptation and operational efficiency.

Xu Dandan, Head of Merchant Development for the Southern Guangdong Region at Alibaba International, echoed this perspective. She noted that companies are using AI-powered business assistants to automatically respond to inquiries from overseas buyers, enabling real-time, multilingual communication. This ensures that merchants capture high-quality leads and drive efficient, high-value international expansion.

Zhong Tianjiao, Founder of 41Caijing, emphasized that the global expansion of Chinese cuisine requires more than just product standardization and supply chain support—it urgently needs the establishment of an international communication system built on multilingual cultural translation, localized content co-creation, and visual storytelling.

She pointed out that media relations are one of the core driving forces behind Chinese cuisine going global. Effective media engagement helps Chinese culinary brands build trustworthy, narrative-rich, and widely shareable brand assets—transforming “flavor” into a story of people and culture. This shift enables Chinese cuisine to move beyond simply exporting dishes toward exporting values and culture, facilitating genuine global integration and elevating brand positioning on the world stage.

Digitalization: A Key Trend in Chinese Cuisine’s Global Expansion

The importance of digital management in the global push was also highlighted. Yao Yang, Rotating CEO of Technology at Pagoda Group (Shenzhen Pagoda Industrial Group Co., Ltd.), shared that the company has adopted a fully digitized supply chain management system, enabling highly efficient operations and minimal waste throughout the entire value chain.

By leveraging precise sales forecasting, logistics coordination, and a trusted handover system, Pagoda has significantly improved delivery efficiency while reducing operational costs. Additionally, the company uses big data for risk control and innovation planning, creating a closed-loop management model that links sales planning with harvest scheduling. This approach enhances both the integrity and quality of the product chain, offering valuable real-world insights for the digital management of food exports.

Buffet Catering Singapore: A Feast for All Tastes

Buffet catering offers a versatile and interactive dining experience, perfect for gatherings of all sizes. Here’s why it’s a perennial favorite:

Variety: Buffets showcase a sprawling selection of dishes, catering to diverse palates and dietary needs. From succulent grilled meats and seafood to vegetarian options and an array of international cuisines, buffets ensure there’s something to tantalize every taste bud. Whether your guests have specific allergies or follow a particular lifestyle diet, a well-designed buffet spread can accommodate these needs with ease.

Guest Choice: Buffet dining empowers guests to curate their own culinary journeys. They can explore different flavors, try new things, and go back for seconds of their favorites. This freedom fosters a fun and social atmosphere, encouraging conversation and interaction as guests mingle and share their culinary discoveries.

Cost-Effectiveness: Buffets are an ideal choice for large groups, as they require less waitstaff compared to sit-down meals. This translates to significant cost savings, making them a budget-friendly option for corporate events, social gatherings, and even weddings with a large guest list.

Singapore’s buffet menus are a delectable tapestry of the city’s rich culinary heritage. Local favorites like Hainanese Chicken Rice, bursting with flavorful rice and tender poached chicken, and Laksa, a rich and spicy noodle soup, mingle with international staples like pasta tossed in creamy sauces, refreshing salads, and an array of seafood dishes cooked to perfection. When choosing a caterer, consider the variety and quality of their menu options, their reputation for delicious food, and their ability to customize menus for specific themes and dietary restrictions.

Wedding Catering Singapore: Setting the Stage for Romance

Wedding catering is where culinary art meets love. From elegant sit-down dinners to lively buffets, wedding catering offers a variety of styles to match your vision and create a lasting impression on your guests:

Sit-Down Dinners: Epitomize sophistication with a meticulously curated multi-course meal. This traditional format allows for a formal and elegant celebration, where guests can relax and savor each course at their own pace. A sit-down dinner is perfect for creating a sense of intimacy and allowing for heartfelt speeches between courses.

Buffets: Create a relaxed and celebratory atmosphere with a diverse spread of dishes. Buffet-style receptions offer guests the freedom to mingle, move around, and try a variety of foods throughout the evening. This format is ideal for larger weddings with a more casual vibe and encourages guests to interact and socialize.

Canape Receptions: Ideal for pre-dinner gatherings or cocktail parties, canape receptions offer bite-sized hors d’oeuvres and flowing drinks. This format is perfect for creating a fun and social atmosphere where guests can mingle and enjoy delectable treats while sipping on refreshing drinks.

When selecting a wedding caterer, key considerations include menu tastings to ensure the food perfectly complements your vision, impeccable presentation that reflects the grandeur of the occasion, attentive service to ensure your guests feel pampered, and the ability to accommodate special dietary requests such as vegetarian, vegan, or halal options.

Breakfast Catering Singapore: Fueling Productive Mornings

Breakfast catering is a rising star, offering delicious and convenient options for corporate events, casual gatherings, and even movie marathons with friends. Here’s a peek at the diverse offerings:

Continental Breakfast: A light and refreshing start to the day, featuring an assortment of pastries like croissants and muffins, fresh fruits, yogurt parfaits, and invigorating coffee selections. This is a perfect choice for meetings, seminars, or conferences where guests need a quick and energizing breakfast before diving into the day’s activities.

Full Breakfast: Offering a hearty start to the day, full breakfast spreads encompass a symphony of eggs cooked to order, porridge, fluffy pancakes or waffles, toast with various jams and condiments, and steaming hot beverages like coffee, tea, and hot chocolate. This option is ideal for corporate events where guests need a more substantial meal to fuel their busy mornings or for weekend brunches with friends and family.

Healthy Breakfast: Catering to wellness enthusiasts and those with dietary restrictions, healthy breakfast options spotlight nourishing fare such as smoothie bowls packed with fresh fruits and superfoods, avocado toast drizzled with olive oil and topped with poached eggs, granola with nuts and seeds and yogurt, and freshly squeezed juices packed with vitamins and antioxidants. This is a perfect choice for health-conscious individuals or those who have specific dietary needs.

Shiok Kitchen Catering: Where Excellence Meets Innovation

Shiok Kitchen Catering stands out for its unwavering dedication to culinary artistry and exceptional service. Here’s what sets them apart and makes them a perfect partner for your next event:

Diverse Menus: From halal-certified local favorites like Nasi Lemak, a fragrant coconut rice dish with fried fish and accompaniments, to international delights like gourmet pizzas and creative fusion dishes that blend global flavors, Shiok Kitchen Catering boasts an extensive menu tailored to tantalize every palate. They cater to specific dietary needs and preferences, ensuring inclusivity for all your guests.

Customization: They understand that every event is unique and offer bespoke catering solutions tailored to the specific requirements of your gathering. Whether you envision a formal sit-down dinner, a lively buffet spread, or a casual breakfast affair, Shiok Kitchen Catering will work closely with you to design a menu that reflects your vision and exceeds your expectations.

Emphasis on Quality: With an unwavering commitment to quality and freshness, Shiok Kitchen Catering sources premium ingredients from trusted suppliers. Their skilled chefs prepare each dish with precision and flair, ensuring a culinary experience that is both visually stunning and bursting with flavor.

Professional Execution: From the initial consultation to the seamless execution of your event, Shiok Kitchen Catering upholds the highest standards of professionalism. Their experienced team will handle all aspects of the catering process, ensuring flawless coordination and unparalleled guest satisfaction. They take care of everything, allowing you to relax and enjoy your special occasion.

Shiok Kitchen Catering, along with other top caterers in Singapore, embodies the essence of culinary mastery and warm hospitality. They transform every occasion into a memorable celebration of food and togetherness.

Ready to embark on a delicious adventure for your next event? Contact Shiok Kitchen Catering today and create an unforgettable experience for your guests.

Shiok Kitchen Catering

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 6411 4994

Url: https://shiokkitchencatering.com.sg/

211 Henderson Rd, #05-03, Singapore 159552