China has unveiled an ambitious five-year plan through its State Council, targeting significant advancements in agricultural and rural modernization from 2026 to 2030. This strategic blueprint prioritizes enhancing food security, boosting agricultural productivity, and elevating living standards in rural communities. Central to the plan is an emphasis on bolstering the country’s grain production capacity to 725 million tonnes by 2030, alongside maintaining a high standard for agricultural product quality and safety inspections, with a pass rate consistently at or above 98 percent.
The plan is aligned with China’s broader modernization objectives and includes a series of initiatives aimed at improving the quality and competitiveness of its agricultural sector while reinforcing poverty reduction efforts. It seeks to address various facets of agriculture, including meat production, green development, rural sewage management, technological innovation, and income growth for farmers. The overarching goal is to create a more efficient and sustainable agricultural industry that meets the increasing demand for healthier and higher-quality food products.
Chinese authorities have highlighted the plan’s focus on advancing agricultural science and technology, expanding the use of modern farming methods, and boosting farmers’ income. These efforts are geared towards transforming agriculture into a sophisticated and sustainable industry that bridges the development gap between urban and rural areas. Key initiatives include the expansion of high-standard farmland, enhancement of agricultural research and innovation, the development of cold-chain logistics, and the promotion of artificial intelligence in farming practices.
In addition to these measures, the plan supports emerging sectors such as intelligent breeding technologies, new-energy agricultural machinery, low-altitude agricultural applications, agricultural bio-manufacturing, and innovative food production. This comprehensive approach builds upon recent achievements in the sector. In 2025, China’s grain output reached nearly 715 million tonnes, marking a notable milestone as production remained above 700 million tonnes for the second year in a row. The role of technology in agriculture has been significant, with scientific and technological advancements contributing over 64 percent to agricultural development—a figure the country aims to increase to 67 percent by 2030.
The newly outlined targets underscore China’s commitment to modernizing its agricultural landscape, ensuring stable supplies of essential food products, and catering to the evolving consumer expectations for quality. By fostering an environment conducive to technological innovation and sustainable practices, China aims to create a vibrant, resilient agricultural sector that supports its long-term modernization goals and continues to drive economic growth and rural development.