Key Takeaways
- China’s farmers are leveraging technology to secure a strong autumn harvest amid weather challenges.
- In Shandong, modern drying facilities have drastically increased corn drying capacity, helping combat mold.
- China’s agricultural advancements not only ensure food security domestically but also contribute to global food sustainability efforts.
Harvest Challenges and Technological Solutions
As China celebrated World Food Day, the nation’s grain-producing regions readied for a fruitful harvest despite facing significant weather obstacles. In Shandong province, persistent rainfall posed a threat to crops, prompting farmers to adopt innovative drying techniques. Specifically, Wenshang county operates 65 mechanical drying facilities, which collectively have enhanced daily drying capacity to 9,500 tonnes—nearly five times higher than in 2020. This modernization plays a crucial role in minimizing grain losses from mold.
In Northeast China’s Heilongjiang province, cooperative farms utilize over 70 large harvesters to efficiently gather soybean and corn crops. The region has benefited from warmer temperatures, allowing farmers to capitalize on an earlier maturation of crops this year. Modern pest control methods such as drone spraying and dense planting techniques were also introduced, aiming to bolster soybean production significantly.
Scientific Advancements in Agriculture
China’s commitment to modern agricultural practices has been evident with the deployment of high-yield crop varieties. An experimental farm operated by Shenyang Agricultural University in Liaoning province showcases six high-yield super rice varieties, enabling farmers to evaluate and select the most effective options for cultivation. The annual “seed selection contest” in Shenyang allows farmers to compare new rice varieties based on yield, quality, and taste, facilitating informed choices for future planting.
According to the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, over 66.7 million hectares of high-standard farmland are now cultivated in China, demonstrating improved soil fertility due to technological innovations. The country’s agricultural technology is increasingly beneficial, contributing to about 63 percent of its agricultural stability.
Commitment to Global Food Security
As China reinforces its food supply for its 1.4 billion citizens, it also aligns with international food security initiatives, notably the UN’s World Food Day theme, “Hand in Hand for Better Foods and a Better Future.” China’s grain output surpassed 700 million tonnes for the first time in 2024, showcasing its capability to fulfill domestic requirements while participating in global food sustainability efforts.
Notably, China’s advancements and success in agriculture are shared globally, with 24 agricultural technology demonstration centers established in Africa, enhancing crop yields by 30 to 60 percent. This effort underscores China’s role in contributing to agricultural modernization worldwide, boosting both local and global food security.
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