December 29, 2003

China Targets 455 Billion kg Gross Crop Output in 2004

China has targeted its gross crop output at 455 billion kg, as the authorities look to implement measures which will aid in raising farm productivity and farmers' income in 2004.

Despite the impact of severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) earlier this year, China's rural economy kept growing, Du said.

To keep increasing incomes in 2004, China would develop its agricultural production and provide more training to migrant rural workers, said Du.

The Ministry of Agriculture would give priority to raising productivity and introducing in modern technologies.

Du also said the government would make every effort to raise the quality and profits of agriculture, focusing on the development of fields such as animal husbandry and aquaculture.

The Ministry of Agriculture had worked out agricultural construction plans for seed cultivation, creativity and application of agricultural technologies, protection of animals and plants, produce quality, agricultural markets, ecological protection, and the socialization of agriculture.