China News Service, Chengdu, November 13th, title: Belgian "Rongpiao" chocolate artisans: willing to build a "sweet" bridge for cultural exchanges between China and China

  Reporter Yue Yitong

  Pour the thick chocolate paste on the stone workbench to cool down, then repeatedly stir to remove bubbles, and then slowly inject it into a special mold... Early in the winter morning, Tom "Rong Biao" from Belgium manages his own chocolate Busy in the workshop.

In less than half an hour, a complete set of chocolate mahjong was ready, and freshly made Sichuan Opera facial makeup chocolates and giant panda chocolates were placed on the side. The shapes were exquisite and full of Sichuan flavor.

Tom is making chocolate.

Photo by An Yuan

  In 2013, Tom, who worked in a car company, came to Chengdu from Belgium for official duties and met his wife Chen Li. The two got married in 2015 and Tom became a Sichuan son-in-law.

In 2016, the couple co-founded the Belgian chocolate brand "Choclito" in Chengdu and started a "sweet" business. The brand name implies the two names, which is very romantic.

  Tom’s family ran a chocolate factory in Belgium, and he learned the art of making chocolate at a very young age.

"Belgian chocolate is very famous. I hope to promote Belgian chocolate in Chengdu so that more Chinese friends can learn about Belgium." Tom, 40, told reporters that although he can't do much, he also wants to use chocolate as a medium. , To make a little contribution to the promotion of cultural exchanges between Belgium and China.

Tom is making chocolate.

Photo by An Yuan

  Under the influence of his wife, Tom's interest in traditional Chinese culture has increased day by day, and he has also developed the idea of ​​combining Chinese elements with chocolate, hoping to promote cultural exchanges in this way.

In addition to Sichuan-style mahjong, giant pandas, and Sichuan opera facial makeup chocolates, he also designed and produced Chinese zodiac chocolates, moon cake chocolates, and zongzi chocolates.

"These wonderful combinations have injected a new soul into the traditional Belgian chocolate, which is very popular with Chinese and foreign customers." Tom smiled. Nowadays, "Chocolito" customers are all over Sichuan, Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou and other places.

  On weekdays, Tom also likes to share his life in China with his relatives and friends in Belgium. Giant pandas, hot pot, and Chinese culture are all “hot topics”.

"It's been 8 years since I first arrived in Chengdu. Over the years, the changes here have been very great. Whether it is urban construction, economic development or internationalization, it is surprising." Tom said with emotion, he is becoming more and more integrated into the city. , "Chengdu is my second hometown."

"Sichuan flavor" chocolate made by Tom.

Photo by An Yuan

  Tom told reporters from Chinanews.com that many of his Belgian friends are looking forward to seeing the market and investing in development after the epidemic has passed after learning about China's development speed, market prospects and living environment.

"China has broad development opportunities and is very tolerant of multiculturalism. I believe they can experience a different life and have different work experiences after coming to China."

  In addition to operating chocolate workshops, in recent years, Tom and Chen Li have also begun to organize cultural exchange activities between China and foreign countries.

"Our love is the result of Sino-foreign exchanges." Chen Li said humorously. Because of each other, she and Tom have a deeper understanding of the cultures of both countries. Not only have they broadened their horizons, but their relationship has become increasingly deep.

"Hopefully, through a variety of activities and a grounded approach, foreigners can learn more about Chinese culture."

Tom and Chen Li.

Photo courtesy of the interviewee.

  Up to now, Tom and Chen Li have organized about 400 various Chinese-foreign exchange activities, including organizing Chinese and foreign friends to experience traditional Chinese intangible cultural heritage projects, visiting Chinese villages to see development and changes, picking tea, and cooking Sichuan cuisine.

"China has a long history and rich culture, and there are many things worth learning. I look forward to exploring this beautiful country in depth, and hope that more foreigners will learn about the real China." Tom said.

(over)