China unveils decade-long plan to boost cereal grain production, consumption

CHINA – China has unveiled a comprehensive strategy for the 2024-2035 period aimed at significantly increasing the production and consumption of cereal grains across the nation.

This new action plan, developed in partnership with the National Food and Strategic Reserves Administration and several other key government departments, sets out ambitious targets for the coming decade to secure food security and encourage healthier eating habits.

As part of the plan, the Chinese government aims to enhance public awareness of cereal grains, integrate them more effectively into the national diet, and promote their health benefits. Government institutions, including campuses and military camps, will play a central role in promoting cereal products.

Officials expect the proportion of grains in the average Chinese diet to substantially increase by 2035, aligning with broader economic and social development goals. Additionally, the initiative encourages businesses and private investors to contribute to the grain industry by establishing development funds, which will further support the sector’s growth.

“By 2035, people’s awareness of cereal crops will be greatly improved, their proportion in residents’ diets will increase significantly, and consumption levels will be in line with China’s economic and social development,” various government agencies said.

According to the National Bureau of Statistics, China achieved a historic milestone in 2024 by producing 706.5 million tons of grain, marking a 1.6% increase from the previous year and surpassing the 700 million tons threshold for the first time.

The increased harvest, driven by improvements in planting practices and higher crop yields, includes substantial increases in key crops such as rice, wheat, and corn. The national grain-sowing area also saw a slight expansion, increasing by 0.3% to 119.34 million hectares, marking the fifth consecutive year of growth.

In line with the 2024-2035 action plan, China plans to further elevate its grain production capabilities by advancing breeding techniques and planting varieties of edible grains that are both more nutritious and higher-yielding.

The government is also focused on improving food safety and processing standards, particularly through the promotion of whole-grain food products. Leading companies are expected to take the helm in this area, establishing a new industry model for the production of grain-based foods that support public health goals.

The Chinese government is also investing heavily in agricultural technology and research as part of its broader efforts to modernize agriculture and ensure food security.

The Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs aims to enhance crop yields by 50 million metric tons by 2030, a 7% increase from the previous year’s record.

These efforts are part of a long-term strategy to reduce the nation’s reliance on imported grains and ensure a stable food supply for China’s growing population of 1.4 billion people.

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