The Capsicum industry in China: development and impact

Since its introduction to China in the late 16th century, Capsicum has transitioned from an exotic crop into a cornerstone of Chinese agriculture. This review examines the industry's historical dissemination and current landscape, which now spans over 2.25 million hectares and yields exceeding 64 million tons annually. This scale supports a vertically integrated value chain, ranging from germplasm breeding and regionalized cultivation to extensive primary and advanced processing. Furthermore, we analyze cultivation practices, consumption dynamics and socioeconomic implications, while offering a strategic outlook on the industry's global competitiveness. These findings highlight the integral role of Capsicum in shaping China's culinary traditions and its significance as a pivotal component of the national agricultural economy.