Hohhot’s official recognition reflects its position as China’s premier milk production, processing, and technological hub. Situated amidst vast natural grassland resources, the city serves as the corporate headquarters for two of the world’s leading dairy conglomerates, Yili Group and Mengniu Group. Supported by ongoing modernizations in herd management and processing infrastructure, Hohhot’s entire dairy industrial chain generated revenues exceeding 300 billion yuan (approximately $42 billion USD) in 2025.

International delegates praised Hohhot’s evolution into a global center for research and environmental stewardship. Pavinee Chinachoti, president-elect of the International Union of Food Science and Technology, noted that Hohhot has established itself at the forefront of sustainable production, actively advancing carbon reduction targets and food safety science to address global consumer priorities.

The conference also attracted major international dairy players, including New Zealand’s Fonterra and packaging leader Tetra Pak, looking to deepen cross-border commercial ties. Fonterra Chairman Peter McBride highlighted that China has evolved beyond being one of the world’s largest dairy consumer markets to become an increasingly influential driver of sector innovation, where rising domestic health demands align closely with strict national sustainability goals.