Fish and chips, bratwurst sausages, pasta...... all of these European delicacies can be eaten with tomato ketchup, known as "all-purpose seasoning." But do you know the story of China's relationship with Europe's favorite sauce?

1/4 of global ketchup comes from China

Did you know that one out of every four bottles of ketchup in the world comes from China? CMG reporter Yang Jingjing visited a number of European cities and launched an interactive Q&A with residents about Chinese tomatoes.

Many of those questioned were not surprised about the fact, due to the abundance of other Chinese goods in their supermarkets.

The abundant sunshine, fertile land and temperature difference between day and night in northwest China provides a unique growing environment for tomatoes. The tomatoes produced here are juicy, refreshing, and are more resistant to storage and transportation.

In recent years, relying on the connectivity between China and Europe boosted by the 'Belt and Road Initiative,' more high-quality Chinese tomatoes have entered the European market.

15-day journey

In September, China ushered in the tomato harvest season. Mechanized harvesting is adopted in many parts of China. A tomato harvesting machine can harvest about 10 acres of tomatoes every day.

After washing, peeling, cutting, concentration, sterilization, filling and other processes, the harvested tomatoes are turned into sauces and shipped to many European countries via the China-Europe Railway Express.

When interviewees learned that it takes only 15 days for tomatoes to be transported to Europe via the China-Europe railway, most were surprised. Some even described the short journey time "unbelievable!"

Food exchange

Thanks to the Belt and Road Initiative, most interviewees said they often buy garlic, ginger, mushrooms and other agricultural products originating from China. A Swede said that many Europeans like the soy sauce and soy products from China and consider themselves "fans" of Asian food.

Meanwhile, more European products are being shipped to China on the China-European railway. Interviewees enthusiastically recommended local delicacies to Chinese people, such as Polish cheese, Spanish ham, Swedish salmon and German bread.....perhaps eaten with Chinese ketchup!

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