China has achieved a major breakthrough in agriculture by setting a new grain production target of 1.4 trillion jin, or about 700 million tons. This is a significant jump from previous goals and marks an important step in the country’s long-term strategy for food security.
The achievement is especially remarkable given that China has only 9% of the world’s arable land and 6% of its freshwater resources. Despite these limitations, new technologies, improved farming methods, and strong policy support have made it possible to reach this milestone.
However, the story of China’s agricultural progress is not just about increasing domestic production. It is also about the broader integration of private enterprises, technological advancements, and international partnerships, all of which have been shaped by key discussions during the 2025 Two Sessions—the National People’s Congress (NPC) and the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC). These meetings, held at a crucial time as China reaches the final year of its 14th Five-Year Plan, provided a platform for leaders, experts, and industry representatives to discuss the future of food security, economic expansion, and sustainability.
One of the biggest drivers of agricultural growth has been technology. Innovations in high-yield crop varieties, AI-driven smart farming, and digital monitoring systems have allowed farmers to maximize output while maintaining efficiency. China has also heavily invested in high-standard farmland development, improving soil quality and water management to ensure sustainable food production. The deep integration of digital tools such as automated seeding, drone-based crop protection, and real-time data analysis has made farming more cost-effective and productive. These advancements have been essential in overcoming resource constraints, proving that technological innovation can offset physical limitations in land and water supply.
While government-led initiatives have been central to this progress, China’s private sector has also played a crucial role, especially in expanding agricultural operations beyond its borders. Companies like Chenguang Biotech Group have invested in large-scale farming projects in India and Zambia, introducing modern farming techniques and providing technical training to local workers. In Zambia, where traditional farming methods have long limited productivity, Chinese firms have helped transform local agriculture by bringing in experts, mechanized equipment, and irrigation systems. These projects do more than increase food production. They create jobs, improve incomes, and offer long-term economic benefits for local communities.
At the same time, China’s cultural industries are making their mark on the global stage. Traditional craftsmanship, such as Guizhou Miao embroidery, is being promoted internationally through business strategies that blend heritage with modern commerce. Entrepreneurs have built platforms to help artisans sell their work, ensuring that traditional skills continue to thrive. Some of these designs have been showcased at international fashion events, drawing attention to China’s deep cultural heritage. Just as agriculture has embraced innovation to boost productivity, traditional industries are using new business models to expand their reach.
Maintaining stable agricultural growth remains a key challenge. As China’s workforce shrinks, the need for sustainable, high-efficiency farming becomes even greater. The 2025 No. 1 Central Document introduced the concept of “new quality productive forces in agriculture”, signaling a shift toward technology-driven, region-specific farming solutions. The goal is to balance food security with sustainability, ensuring that farmers benefit from innovation while production remains stable.
Ensuring this balance will require continued investment in infrastructure, research, and education to equip farmers with the tools and knowledge needed to adapt to modern agricultural practices. Encouraging young talent to enter the farming sector is also critical, as an aging workforce poses long-term challenges. Support programs that provide financial incentives, technical training, and access to smart farming technologies can help attract a new generation of agricultural professionals. At the same time, strengthening domestic supply chains and international trade partnerships will be essential in securing food security while maintaining stable market conditions. By focusing on these areas, China can sustain its agricultural progress while ensuring that innovation benefits both producers and consumers.
China’s role in global agricultural cooperation is also expanding. Through the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), China has been sharing its expertise with developing nations, helping them improve food production and modernize farming. Many regions face challenges such as low resource utilization and inefficient farming methods, and China’s support has helped bridge these gaps. The focus is not just on boosting output but also on building resilient food systems that can withstand economic and environmental challenges.
Private companies operating abroad must also navigate new challenges. Expanding into international markets means adapting to different legal and cultural environments, assessing risks, and working closely with local communities. Some firms have successfully built partnerships by combining China’s manufacturing strength with localized business strategies, allowing them to compete globally while contributing to local development.
China’s success in agriculture, business, and cultural industries is built on a foundation of innovation, strategic planning, and international collaboration. Advances in technology, the expansion of private enterprises, and strong policy support have transformed food production and opened new global opportunities. As China continues to modernize its agricultural sector and strengthen partnerships abroad, the focus will remain on sustainability, efficiency, and economic growth. The path forward will depend on how well these sectors adapt to new challenges while maintaining the progress that has already been made.
Author: Muhammad Asif Noor – Founder of Friends of BRI Forum, Senior Advisor to Pakistan Research Centre at Hebei Normal University in China, Co-Founder of the Alliance of China-Pakistan Research Centres, and Senior Fellow at the Centre for CPEC Studies at Kashi University in China.
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