Chinese Ambassador to the U.S. Xie Feng has urged strengthened agricultural cooperation between the two nations, calling it a cornerstone for addressing global food security challenges. Speaking at a bilateral soybean industry event in Washington D.C., Xie emphasized that China and the U.S. collectively account for nearly 40% of global food production while consuming a quarter of the world’s total output.
Complementary Strengths, Shared Benefits
Xie highlighted the symbiotic relationship: “China excels in labor-intensive agricultural products, while the U.S. leverages mechanized, large-scale production for land-intensive commodities.” The event, co-hosted by the U.S. Soybean Export Council and a Chinese trade chamber, brought together industry leaders and scholars to discuss collaborative opportunities.
Pushing Back Against Politicization
The ambassador criticized recent restrictions on Chinese agricultural investments in the U.S. as “political manipulation,” stressing that “farmers should not pay the cost of trade wars.” He framed agricultural collaboration as vital for implementing bilateral agreements and reviving economic consultation mechanisms.
Sowing Seeds for Sustainable Growth
Xie proposed a three-pronged approach: eliminating political ‘pests’ hindering cooperation, expanding trade and research partnerships, and restoring agricultural dialogue platforms. “Let’s be farmers growing a steady, sustainable bilateral relationship,” he concluded, urging industry leaders to act as bridges between the nations.
