News in brief:
– China’s new rural revitalisation plan aims to boost agriculture, improve rural livelihoods, and ensure food security by protecting farmland, increasing crop yields, and promoting sustainable farming practices.
– The plan offers farmers opportunities for better infrastructure, technology access, higher incomes, and long-term sustainable livelihoods.
China has unveiled a new Rural Comprehensive Revitalization Plan (2024-2027) to strengthen its agriculture sector, improve rural livelihoods, and ensure food security. The plan, introduced by the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China and the State Council in January 2025, aims to bridge the gap between urban and rural areas while enhancing agricultural productivity.
Key focus areas of the plan
1. Protecting Farmland and Boosting Crop Yields
The plan emphasises the protection of cultivated land to prevent illegal occupation and ensure sustainable use. Efforts will be made to enhance soil quality and productivity through modern farming techniques, including genetically modified (GM) and gene-edited (GE) crops. In 2024, China approved 14 GM soybean and 37 GM corn varieties, aiming to improve yields and reduce import dependency.
2. Strengthening Food Security
China seeks to maintain stable grain and cereal production by dedicating approximately 117 million hectares to grain cultivation. The government aims to increase grain output by 50 million tonnes and eventually reach an annual production of 700 million tonnes. Soybean production will also be a focus, as China remains the world’s largest consumer and importer of soybeans.
3. Enhancing Rural Incomes and Livelihoods
The plan promotes industrial development in rural areas by supporting agriculture, livestock farming, rural tourism, and agri-processing industries. Rural e-commerce and supply chain improvements will help farmers get better market access. Additionally, policies will be introduced to provide financial support and job training for rural migrant workers, encouraging them to return to their hometowns for business opportunities.
4. Promoting Green Agriculture
China is pushing for eco-friendly farming practices, including reduced chemical fertiliser use, improved irrigation, and sustainable pest control methods. The plan also encourages afforestation and ecological restoration, with projects like the Great Green Wall to combat desertification.
Implications for farmers
This revitalisation plan presents significant opportunities for farmers in China. With government support, farmers can expect better infrastructure, access to modern agricultural technologies, and higher incomes. Sustainable farming methods will also ensure long-term soil fertility and productivity, securing livelihoods for future generations.
