Smart Technologies And 5G Network Drive China's Agricultural Modernisation Forward

China is making significant strides in modernising its agricultural sector through the integration of smart technologies and the deployment of the 5G network. This initiative, as reported by China Central Television, aligns with the central authorities' emphasis on agriculture and rural development as a top priority during the 14th Five-Year Plan period (2021-2025). The country has introduced a series of measures to advance agricultural modernisation and has achieved notable progress in key areas.

One of the critical steps taken includes the enhancement of agricultural infrastructure. China has developed over one billion mu (approximately 66.67 million hectares) of high-standard farmland, boosting grain production capacity by 10 percent to 20 percent per mu. This development is pivotal for food security and supports green agricultural practices.

The expansion of rural infrastructure has also seen remarkable achievements. The total length of rural roads in China now spans 4.6 million km, with all qualified towns and villages having hardened roads. Additionally, over 80 percent of administrative villages are now covered by 5G networks, facilitating advanced connectivity.

Scientific and technological innovation plays a crucial role in this transformation. The contribution rate of agricultural science and technology progress has surpassed 63 percent. China's self-sufficiency in crop sources remains high at over 95 percent. The country has also seen widespread adoption of agricultural machinery equipped with China's BeiDou Navigation Satellite System terminals and nearly 200,000 plant protection drones.

The introduction of modern technologies has significantly enhanced traditional agricultural practices, making them more efficient. The mechanisation rate in crop plowing, planting, and harvesting increased from 67.2 percent in 2017 to 73 percent in 2022. These advancements have contributed to China achieving a grain harvest of over 650 million tonnes for the ninth consecutive year in 2023.

Furthermore, China is focused on building a modern agricultural industrial system. Currently, there are 289,000 village-level comprehensive delivery and logistics service stations and 75,000 refrigeration and fresh-keeping facilities in production areas across the country. These facilities ensure that fresh agricultural produce can quickly reach larger markets.

This comprehensive approach to modernising agriculture demonstrates China's commitment to enhancing its agricultural sector through technology and infrastructure development. The integration of smart technologies and extensive coverage of the 5G network are pivotal elements in shaping the future of agriculture in China, ensuring food security and promoting sustainable development.

With inputs from WAM