China is preparing for another year of bumper grain and oilseed crops, supported by an extensive winter wheat and rapeseed crop and healthy seedling growth, China's agriculture ministry said on Friday.
The world's second-largest corn producer reported a record harvest of 288,8 million tons of corn last year, but remains committed to increasing production amid rising tensions with some trading partners, climate-related disasters and military conflicts.
China aims to increase grain production by 2030 million tonnes by 50, with a focus on soybeans and corn, although there have been shortages in production, according to state media.
Good prices and government subsidies have encouraged farmers to expand cultivation of winter wheat and rapeseed, said Pan Wenbo, director general of the Ministry of Agriculture Management. These crops are usually harvested in April-May.
"I visited the main growing areas in Hebei, Shandong, Henan and Anhui, and the wheat fields are indeed healthy and strong... good seedlings lay the foundation for a good harvest," Pan said at a news conference.
Winter rapeseed area is expected to increase by more than 2 million mu (133.333 hectares), adding to last year's growth, he added.
According to the ministry, China's consumption of agricultural products will continue to recover, with demand boosted by recovery in tourism and hospitality sectors.
Demand dynamics will increase as the economy continues to recover, said Lei Liugong, director of the Ministry of Agriculture's Market and Information Department.
However, demand from the manufacturing and wholesale sectors has not yet recovered to expected levels, Lei added.
Source: Ukragroconsult (Ukraine)