On 29 June 2026, the Hong Kong MEINONG grape-picking robot R&D and training base was officially inaugurated in Shanshan County, Turpan, Xinjiang. The milestone marks a key step for one of China’s major grape-producing regions as it moves from manual labour to intelligent orchard management.
The MEINONG grape-picking robot has now landed in Turpan to support the development of smart agriculture in rural areas. The unveiling ceremony was attended by leaders and guests including Shanshan County Deputy County Magistrate Akhmet, MEINONG CEO Li Deyong, and Professor Hu Mantian of The Chinese University of Hong Kong. Following the ceremony, the picking robot gave an on-site operation demonstration, completing the full harvesting workflow automatically. Guests observed the demonstration and held in-depth discussions on technology application.
The base will perform three core functions: smart-equipment demonstration, hands-on training, and technology promotion, helping the local grape industry reduce costs, raise efficiency, improve quality and upgrade production. It will showcase the full workflow of intelligent vineyard machinery including pruning, harvesting and plant protection; provide practical training for growers, cooperative staff, young agri-entrepreneurs and grassroots technicians to build local agritech talent; and optimise technical parameters through field trials to establish intelligent operating standards suited to Xinjiang’s grape-growing conditions.
According to the project lead, field trials of the grape-picking robot began in Qiketai Town in May 2026, with comprehensive data collection laying the groundwork for subsequent technology upgrades and scaled rollout. The base will form a complete “R&D—trials—training—promotion” empowerment chain, driving Shanshan’s grape industry from labour dependence to technology-driven, and from extensive to fine management.
Source: China Cooperation Times