Fields to tables: Jilin's agriculture thrives with tech

The 2025 Government Work Report prioritizes stabilizing grain planting areas while enhancing yield and quality. Since 2021, China has implemented six key initiatives, including green storage, branding, and traceability, to ensure sustainable and high-value grain production. Northeast China's Jilin province, a major agricultural region, is embracing this transformation, making its fresh corn and premium rice industries national models.

Jilin Nongsao Food Co, founded in 2012, started as a small, unknown business struggling to sell its corn at a competitive price. Through strategic partnerships with the Jilin Academy of Agricultural Sciences, the company introduced superior corn varieties and adopted advanced farming techniques.

It now cultivates 2,000 hectares of corn, producing 70-80 million ears annually. With over 30 corn-based products – including vacuum-packed corn, frozen kernels, and corn beverages – its network has expanded to 22 countries and regions. This success has helped local farmers achieve prosperity through contract farming and cooperative partnerships.

Jilin is also refining its rice industry. The province has introduced a rice grading system to ensure standardized quality and higher market value. Once sold at around six yuan ($0.83) per kilogram, Jilin's rice now benefits from premium branding and structured classification.

By integrating advanced technologies, scientific research, and market-driven strategies, Jilin's fresh corn and rice industries are setting new benchmarks.