In a remote part of Xinjiang, China, a quiet but crucial battle is being fought - the price of red dates from the village of Gule Airike is deciding the fate of hundreds of families. Every extra penny means a significant addition to the annual budget of local farmers.

In the middle of the harvest, village chief Jia Hui tries to negotiate a better price - 8.5 yuan instead of 8.3 per kilogram. Thousands of yuan of income for a community that has worked hard all year depends on this small price. Ruoqiang County dates are known for their strong flesh, sweet taste and high sugar content, which is due to their unique climate - long sunny days and large temperature differences between day and night.

Every fruit is the result of determination and diligence. And even if they are just fruit, for the locals, dates represent hope - and the possibility that their story will reach far beyond the desert.

CMG