March 3, 2006

China launches major initiative to raise grain production

China officially launched a nationwide initiative Thursday to improve its grain production, targeting an increase in average annual grain production by 5 million tonnes between 2006 and 2010.

The move would make China self-sufficient in grain supply, said Chen Mengshan, an official with the Ministry of Agriculture

Highlights of the initiative include the promotion of high-yield seeds, scientific application of fertilisers based on soil type and more efficient pest prevention and control, said Chen. The protection and improvement of arable lands would also be included, such as the building of water conservation projects.

Governments at all levels would also encourage the development of large-scale farming, farmers' cooperatives and industrialization of agricultural sector, he added.