Foodservice Profile China Report 2012
Executive Summary
The Chinese economy has grown at a tremendous rate, reaching a value of US$5.9 trillion in 2010. This expansion has stimulated growth in the country's large foodservice market, valued at US$333 billion in 2010.
While independent operators dominate the sector, global chains have gained a foothold in recent years and are expanding rapidly. As consumer incomes rise and tastes change, so does the demand for foodservice. Indeed, the sector's focus is expanding from the country's most-developed cities to its emerging second- and third-tier cities. Moreover, tourism is expected to rise significantly over the next decade, offering more foodservice opportunities.
The growth of the market presents Canadian exporters an opportunity to supply China's foodservice providers and capitalize on their growth. Challenges remain, however, since most foodservice companies source locally and price competition is not uncommon. As such, the opportunities awaiting Canadian exporters are moderated by these issues.