Smart Technologies And 5G Network Spearhead China's Agricultural Modernisation

China is currently undergoing a significant transformation in its agricultural sector, driven by the integration of smart technologies and the deployment of the 5G network. This shift towards modernisation is part of the country's broader strategy to prioritise agriculture and rural development, as highlighted by China Central Television. The central authorities in China have placed a strong emphasis on initiatives related to agriculture, rural areas, and farmers during the 14th Five-Year Plan period (2021-2025).

To propel agricultural modernisation forward, China has implemented a series of measures and has been making strides in rural reform. These efforts have led to notable advancements in several key areas. One of the foundational elements of this transformation is the construction of agricultural infrastructure. The development of over one billion mu (approximately 66.67 million hectares) of high-standard farmland has significantly boosted grain production capacity by 10 percent to 20 percent per mu.

The expansion of rural roads is another area where progress has been made, with the total mileage reaching 4.6 million km. This development ensures that all qualified towns and villages are connected by hardened roads, and more than 80 percent of administrative villages now have access to 5G networks.

Scientific and technological innovation plays a pivotal role in China's agricultural modernisation. The contribution rate of agricultural science and technology progress has surpassed 63 percent, with the self-sufficiency rate of crop sources exceeding 95 percent. The adoption of nearly 2.2 million sets of agricultural machinery equipped with China's BeiDou Navigation Satellite System terminals and almost 200,000 plant protection drones showcases the country's commitment to modernising its agricultural practices.

The introduction of these advanced technologies has not only made traditional agriculture more efficient but also enhanced agricultural production methods significantly. From 2017 to 2022, the rate of mechanisation in crop plowing, planting, and harvesting increased from 67.2 percent to 73 percent. This technological advancement contributed to China achieving a grain harvest of over 650 million tonnes for the ninth consecutive year in 2023.

Furthermore, China is dedicated to building a modern agricultural industrial system. To date, a total of 289,000 village-level comprehensive delivery and logistics service stations, along with 75,000 refrigeration and fresh-keeping facilities in production areas, have been established across the country. These facilities play a crucial role in ensuring that fresh agricultural produce reaches major markets more efficiently.

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

With inputs from WAM