East China's Shanghai is currently buzzing with activity as the Chinese New Year fast approaches – with both imports and exports surging through at the city's giant port.

Popular Shanghai delicacies, such as drunken crabs, fermented bean curds and traditional pastries are flying off the shelves of shops – both locally and overseas. At the same time, fresh-cut imported flowers like Kenyan roses and Dutch tulips are in high demand, adding to the festive atmosphere as sought-after items for the upcoming Chinese New Year celebrations.

Shanghai's Chongming Island is known for being the birthplace of the famous Chinese mitten crab. The island's hairy crabs, loved for their rich roe and tender meat, are not only a hit domestically but also catching the attention of foodies abroad.

Since the start of the Chinese mitten crab season in 2023, Chongming Customs has exported 64.6 metric tons of these crabs overseas. Additionally, Shanghai is now exporting cooked drunken crabs, expanding its product range to cater to international markets.

Always a hit with food lovers: Delicious cooked drunken crab. [Photo/VCG]

Another Shanghai favorite, Dingfeng fermented bean curd, is making waves overseas. Widely regarded as a staple for rice dishes domestically, this fermented bean curd has found popularity abroad, with many consumers using it as a cheese substitute.

Boosted by New Year and Spring Festival celebrations, the production lines churning out Dingfeng bean curd are currently at full stretch to meet the soaring export orders. In 2023, Shanghai exported over 126 tons of fermented bean curd to destinations such as Singapore and Canada.

Diners just love the fermented bean curd, with its alluring color. [Photo/VCG]

Fresh-cut flowers, including hydrangeas and bamboo lilies, are also making their way into China as part of the New Year festivities.

Shanghai Pudong International Airport Customs has established a fast-track channel for the import of these flowers, implementing measures such as advanced declarations to ensure swift clearance.

From Dec 20, 2023 to Jan 18, Pudong International Airport Customs experienced a peak in fresh-cut flower imports, totaling 150.11 tons and valued at over 14.02 million yuan ($1.95 million).