Organic Not Priority for China's Consumers

WASHINGTON - Jun 21/06 - SNS -- Expectations that increased wealth and consumer spending in China will automatically drive demand for organic food products are not being realized, according to a recent report from the U.S. agricultural attache for the country.

This is a frustration for both the international organic movement and the Chinese government, which sees organic agriculture as a way to lift the country's farmers out of poverty.

The problem is many Chinese consumers lack awareness of the benefits of organic foods. Consumers of organic products tend to be highly educated and affluent. In China, this assertion also holds true, with a majority of organic consumers coming from the upper class.

Disposable income among Chinese consumers has not grown to the point where organic products could control a significant part of the market. In the past, in-store promotional activities for food items have been successful, and might work in the promotion of organic products for middle class consumers.

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