October 29, 2024
China's grain output expected to hit record 700 million tonnes amid focus on food security
China's grain output is projected to reach a record high of 700 million tonnes this year, according to the country's Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, China Daily reported.
This anticipated milestone follows nine years of steady grain production, consistently holding above 650 million tonnes, Vice Minister Zhang Xingwang announced at a press conference on Friday.
This year's summer grain harvests have already concluded, with the summer grain output totalling 149.78 million tonnes, a 3.63 million-tonne increase from the previous year.
Currently, the autumn grain harvest is progressing smoothly, with about 82.5% of autumn crops already harvested. Vice Minister Zhang emphasised that, despite adverse weather conditions, including heavy rains, typhoons, and droughts, the overall crop area affected by natural disasters remains one of the lowest in recent years.
Several factors have contributed to this year's growth in grain production. Expanded planting areas, increased insurance coverage, higher minimum purchase prices for wheat and rice, and yield-enhancement measures for corn and soybeans have all played a role, Zhang noted. To further encourage grain cultivation, the government raised the minimum purchase prices for wheat and rice in 2023, in addition to enhancing subsidies for corn and soybean farmers.
While supplies of wheat remain steady, Zhang acknowledged that demand gaps for corn persist, along with a continuing dependence on imported soybeans. This highlights the need for intensified efforts to protect farmland and boost domestic production capacity.
Grain security continues to be a top policy priority for China. The "No 1 central document" for 2024 outlines a new round of grain production expansion efforts aimed at stabilising the sown grain area and increasing yield per unit, with a target of maintaining annual production levels above 650 million tonnes.
To support this objective, China has implemented a series of initiatives in recent years, such as the development of high-standard farmland and the adoption of advanced agricultural technologies. Since 2021, China's total arable land area has increased by 17.58 million mu (or 1.17 million hectares), marking a net increase for three consecutive years.
Looking ahead, Vice Minister Zhang said the ministry plans to introduce additional policies to raise agricultural productivity, boost farmer incomes, and revitalise rural areas. These efforts are aimed at achieving the country's annual agricultural targets while supporting its broader economic goals.
- China Daily