Taitou watermelon from Jinghai district, Tianjin. [Photo/WeChat account: jhgbdsxww]

A new seasonal drink made with Jinghai's famed Taitou watermelon and Haihe milk has hit the market. The product, jointly launched by Tianjin Haihe Dairy and Taitou town, uses 5,000 kilograms of premium watermelons sourced from the town's core production area.

This marks Haihe Dairy's first close collaboration with a local geographical indication agricultural product, seen as a landmark government-enterprise-farmer partnership.

During the new product launch, the watermelon milk sold out quickly online, while physical stores saw heavy foot traffic. Many local consumers said the drink reminded them of their childhood summers, with a fresh, moderately sweet taste that combines the freshness of Taitou watermelon and the rich aroma of Haihe milk.

Haihe watermelon milk. [Photo/WeChat account: jhgbdsxww]

Taitou watermelon, a national geographical indication product, is known for its sandy texture and crispy sweetness, while Haihe milk, a century-old brand, has been a staple for generations of Tianjin residents.

Haihe Dairy's delivery and retail channel manager noted that the drink's appeal lies in its fusion of local terroir and history.

Beyond the product, the collaboration aims to expand Taitou town's agricultural reach. With Haihe Dairy's advanced processing, cold-chain logistics, and nationwide sales channels, the seasonal fruit is now preserved in milk form and distributed across the country.

Taitou town also plans to build on the watermelon brand by promoting other local fruits, including peaches and grapes, broadening market opportunities and supporting the development of its fruit industry.