UK-based food group Associated British Foods (ABF) has entered into a joint venture with Hebei Tian Lu Sugar Group, a sugar producer based in northeastern China.

Discover B2B Marketing That Performs

Combine business intelligence and editorial excellence to reach engaged professionals across 36 leading media platforms.

Find out more


The new venture, which will trade as Bo Tian, is still to gain Government approval but clearance is expected by the end of September. 


ABF said Tian Lu will contribute its existing beet sugar business to the joint venture and ABF will contribute some GBP70m (US$140m) to fund plans for future development and expansion. ABF will hold 51% of the joint venture, while Tian Lu will control the remaining 49%.


“This acquisition represents another exciting development for us in China,” said ABF’s chief executive officer George Weston. “Our experience in operating cane sugar factories in southern China, combined with our skills as the lowest cost beet sugar producer in Europe will enable us to introduce improvements quickly and efficiently to China’s beet sugar industry.”


Tian Lu operates four beet sugar factories in Wangkui and Yi’an in Heilongjiang province, Zhangbei in Hebei province and Qianqi in Inner Mongolia.

GlobalData Strategic Intelligence

US Tariffs are shifting - will you react or anticipate?

Don’t let policy changes catch you off guard. Stay proactive with real-time data and expert analysis.

By GlobalData

Just Food Excellence Awards - The Benefits of Entering

Gain the recognition you deserve! The Just Food Excellence Awards celebrate innovation, leadership, and impact. By entering, you showcase your achievements, elevate your industry profile, and position yourself among top leaders driving food industry advancements. Don’t miss your chance to stand out—submit your entry today!

Nominate Now