China calls for stability in grain and edible oil production

Following the annual Central Rural Work Conference held on December 29–30, Chinese officials emphasized the need to stabilize grain and edible oil production, improve crop varieties, and enhance product quality. According to the state news agency Xinhua, the country’s priorities remain self-sufficiency and the development of high-quality agricultural systems.

Conference participants highlighted the importance of “increasing the capacity for diversified food supply” and “promoting high-quality development of farmland through zoned and categorized planning.” Given China’s heavy reliance on imports and tense trade relations with the U.S., the country is accelerating self-sufficiency programs, investing in modern machinery and seed technologies.

Xinhua reports that the government is calling for the integration of high-quality land, seeds, machinery, and farming practices to improve overall agricultural productivity and quality. Measures are also planned to increase farmers’ incomes and ensure stable employment for migrant workers, forming part of a broader strategy to safeguard food security amid economic challenges and urbanization pressures.

In addition, China plans to launch province-wide pilot programs to extend rural land-use contracts by another 30 years after their expiration around 2027. In 2025, China’s total grain output reached a new record of 714.9 million tons, up 1.2% from 2024.

Tags: China, grain, oilseeds