Chongqing—On May 19th, a delegation of over 40 international journalists, including reporters and photographers from media outlets in the U.S., U.K., France, Germany, Switzerland, Australia, Singapore, and Japan, embarked on a three-day visit to Chongqing. This trip marks the inaugural stop of a nationwide media tour to showcase China’s modernization achievements during the concluding phase of China's 14th Five-Year Plan, focusing on the Yangtze River Economic Belt’s green and high-quality development.

View of Sanfeng Environment Group's Baiguoyuan facility. (Photo/Qihai Deng)

​​Cultural heritage meets innovative brewery

The journalists' first destination was Jiangjin District, home to the renowned Jiangxiaobai Baijiu Brewery. As one of China’s intangible cultural heritages, the distillery blends centuries-old techniques with modern innovation. Reporters immersed themselves in the art of traditional liquor-making, from inspecting organic red sorghum fields—grown in selenium-rich soil—to crafting personalized blends under the guidance of master distillers.

International press delegates participate in baijiu blending sessions, crafting personalized liquors under master distillers' guidance. (Photo/Qihai Deng)

Donald Weinland, a correspondent from The Economist, remarked, “Witnessing the fusion of ancient methods and cutting-edge technology here is fascinating. While distinct from iconic brands like Moutai, Jiangxiaobai’s approachable flavor profile resonates with everyday consumers—a testament to its market appeal.” The distillery’s global footprint, spanning over 30 countries and earning 230 international awards, underscores its success in redefining Chinese baijiu for both younger generations and overseas markets.

​​Waste-to-energy: a model for sustainable urbanization​

The tour then shifted to Chongqing’s environmental frontlines at the Baiguoyuan Waste-to-Energy Plant operated by Sane Environment Group. The facility can process 4,500 tons of municipal waste daily, equivalent to powering 400,000 households, which exemplifies Chongqing’s circular economy ambitions. Journalists observed the entire process, from odor-controlled waste reception halls to advanced incineration systems that exceed EU emission standards.

Engineer demonstrates waste-to-energy processes through holographic simulations. (Photo/Qihai Deng)

“The plant’s use of animations and interactive exhibits demystified complex environmental technologies,” noted an Australian journalist. “It’s remarkable how seamlessly sustainability integrates with urban life here.” Sanfeng’s innovations, including proprietary grate furnace designs and AI-driven pollution controls, have positioned Chongqing as a global leader in clean waste management, with projects spanning Southeast Asia and beyond.​

Journalist documents the central control room's real-time emissions monitoring systems. (Photo/Qihai Deng)

For international observers, the journey offered more than headlines—it revealed a metropolis harmonizing economic dynamism with environmental stewardship, setting a template for the Yangtze River region’s sustainable future. As the media tour continues, Chongqing’s story of innovation-rooted heritage and ecological responsibility will undoubtedly echo across global audiences.