In Hetian County of Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region, aquaculture projects are transforming saline-alkali desert land on the edge of the Taklimakan Desert into productive seafood farms.

A 67-hectare greenhouse-based facility now produces Chinese mitten crabs, whiteleg shrimp, Australian freshwater lobsters, and perch for local consumption. Officials say locally grown seafood is now 15–20% cheaper than imported coastal products, improving supply and affordability.

Farmers have adapted to desert conditions by adjusting water salinity, introducing aquatic plants and microorganisms, and using river water from nearby sources to maintain balanced ecosystems. Selective breeding has also produced crab varieties better suited to saline environments.

Additional indoor aquaculture systems in the region are expanding fish production while integrating waste recycling into greenhouse agriculture, creating a circular farming model.

Authorities report rapid growth in the sector, supported by research partnerships and branding initiatives such as “Kunlun Jade Crab.” In 2025, fisheries output in Hetian County rose sharply, highlighting aquaculture as a new driver of desert-based agricultural development and local economic growth.

Source: People’s Daily