How Smart Technologies And 5G Are Shaping The Future Of Agriculture In China

As China embarks on a journey to modernise its agricultural sector, the integration of smart technologies and the deployment of the 5G network are playing pivotal roles in shaping the future of agriculture in the country. This initiative, as reported by China Central Television, aligns with the central authorities' prioritisation of agriculture and rural development during the 14th Five-Year Plan period (2021-2025).

The government's commitment to advancing agricultural modernisation is evident through a series of measures aimed at rural reform. These efforts have led to significant advancements in key areas, including the strengthening of agricultural infrastructure. With over one billion mu (approximately 66.67 million hectares) of high-standard farmland developed, China has seen a 10 percent to 20 percent increase in grain production capacity per mu.

Moreover, the total mileage of rural roads in China has reached 4.6 million km, with all qualified towns and villages boasting hardened roads. Impressively, more than 80 percent of administrative villages now have access to 5G networks, underscoring the country's commitment to integrating cutting-edge technology into its agricultural practices.

Scientific and technological innovation has emerged as a major driving force behind agricultural modernisation in China. The contribution rate of agricultural science and technology progress has surpassed 63 percent, while the self-sufficiency rate of crop sources exceeds 95 percent. The adoption of nearly 200,000 plant protection drones and more than 2.2 million sets of agricultural machinery equipped with China's BeiDou Navigation Satellite System terminals highlights the significant role of modern science and technology in enhancing traditional agriculture.

The impact of these technological advancements is further evidenced by the increased rate of mechanisation in crop plowing, planting, and harvesting, which rose from 67.2 percent in 2017 to 73 percent in 2022. This progress has contributed to China securing a grain harvest of over 650 million tonnes for the ninth consecutive year in 2023.

In addition to technological advancements, China is also focused on constructing a modern agricultural industrial system. The establishment of 289,000 village-level comprehensive delivery and logistics service stations and 75,000 refrigeration and fresh-keeping facilities across the country ensures that fresh agricultural produce reaches major markets more efficiently.

This comprehensive approach to modernising agriculture through technological integration and infrastructure development reflects China's dedication to enhancing its agricultural sector's efficiency and productivity. As these initiatives continue to unfold, they are set to redefine the landscape of agriculture in China.

With inputs from WAM