Xinjiang Village Transforms Fortunes Through Lavender Industry
Sigong village in Xinjiang has seen its fortunes transformed by the development of its lavender industry. The village has cultivated eco-tourism and local businesses, attracting thousands of visitors and revitalizing the rural economy.
Sigong village, located in China's Xinjiang Uygur autonomous region, has transformed its economy through the cultivation and promotion of lavender. What was once a barren wasteland has become a scenic destination with 800 hectares of blooming lavender fields, drawing hundreds of thousands of tourists annually.
The village, situated in Huocheng county, began cultivating lavender in 2009. Over a decade, it has developed into a hub for rural tourism, integrating eco-tourism, leisure, and cultural experiences. This initiative has been a key driver for rural vitalization, significantly boosting the local economy.
Sigong village encourages local entrepreneurship, resulting in 72 distinct homestays and various supporting businesses like coffee shops and restaurants. Villagers, such as Zhang Shunhai, have seen their incomes increase substantially by developing their properties to cater to tourists, with some reporting a five- to sixfold increase in earnings.
Beyond tourism, the village has focused on processing lavender to extend its value chain. Xinjiang Natural Aromatic Agricultural Technology is a key enterprise collaborating with universities on research and development, leading to over 360 lavender-based products. Huocheng county hosts 31 businesses involved in lavender processing and distribution.
The success of the lavender industry has led to improved infrastructure and living standards in Sigong. Nigara Abdunabi, director of the village's rural development center, stated that the lavender industry has improved household incomes and beautified the village with upgraded amenities and renovated courtyards.