China has seen a net increase in its total area of farmland for three consecutive years, reversing years of decline, the Ministry of Natural Resources announced on Thursday.
Since 2021, the country’s farmland has expanded by 17.58 million mu (about 1.17 million hectares), according to Liu Guohong, Vice Minister of Natural Resources, who spoke at a press conference. This significant achievement marks a turning point in China’s agricultural development.
Liu attributed the increase to the country’s sustained efforts to focus on farmland as the lifeline of grain production. He highlighted improved measures in carrying out reforms and the implementation of an accountability mechanism regarding farmland protection as key factors contributing to the growth.
“Our commitment to farmland protection has yielded tangible results,” Liu said. “By prioritizing agricultural land and enhancing our policies, we have successfully expanded our farmland area.”
This expansion reverses years of shrinking farmland in China, which had been a concern due to implications for food security and agricultural sustainability. The government’s renewed focus on farmland emphasizes the importance of agriculture in the nation’s development.
Reference(s):
China sees net increase in farmland for three consecutive years
cgtn.com
