Chapter 14 · Late 19th – 20th century
Chinese migrations
From the late 19th century, Chinese merchants, largely from the Canton region, settled in Réunion. They first specialised in retail trade before becoming part of every sphere of Réunionese society.
Trade as a way in
The first Chinese arrivals opened shops in town centres, a sector where their presence is still notable today.
A lasting culinary legacy
Bouchons, now an emblematic dish of the island, descend directly from Cantonese shao mai, adapted with local flavours.
Gradual integration
Over the generations, the Sino-Réunionese community has become fully integrated, while keeping certain festivals and customs, such as Chinese New Year, now shared by the whole island.
Photo: Illustration created for the app · Illustration, not an authentic period photograph
Sources (2)
- Recherches culturelles sur la cuisine réunionnaise
- Portail culturel de La Réunion