Zongzi, the beloved sticky rice delicacy, is making its way onto tables across China this June for the annual Dragon Boat Festival. However, Hubei farmers are facing a unique challenge this year as they work tirelessly to compensate for the losses they endured during the lockdown.
Starting in early April, a full month ahead of schedule, workers near the Yangtze River in Hubei Province have been collecting leaves for Zongzi production. This proactive approach aims to make up for the reduced sales, which have fallen to only 60% of their usual levels. To bridge the gap, farmers are increasingly relying on online sales platforms.
Despite the hurdles, the process of bringing the aroma of Zongzi to festive celebrations has provided some comfort. \"It's nice to have the kids around,\" one worker shared, highlighting the silver linings amidst the pandemic struggles.
