China is reportedly drawing up plans to secure the supply of food in the midst of the global coronavirus crisis, including strengthening mechanisms against diseases such as African swine fever, which has decimated the country’s hog herds.

It will also encourage farmers to produce more rice and will seek to diversify imports of major agricultural products, while guaranteeing the stable supply of grains, edible oils, meat, eggs, fruits, and vegetables, the National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC) said in an annual report to parliament today (22 May), according to Reuters.

China will continue to foster a recovery in its pig numbers hit by African swine fever, although the disease still remains a threat to hog production, Reuters quoted agriculture minister Han Changfu as saying. However, the country will not see a big increase in prices, the minister added.

Authorities have urged state and private firms to boost inventories of major agriculture products such as soybeans and corn as a safety net against future disruption to supply.

“It is imperative, and it is well within our ability, to ensure the food supply for 1.4 billion Chinese people through our own efforts,” China’s Premier Li Keqiang told parliament.

China will keep total crop acreage and grain output stable this year, give more rewards to major grain-producing countries, and raise the minimum purchase price of rice, Li said.
 

How well do you really know your competitors?

Access the most comprehensive Company Profiles on the market, powered by GlobalData. Save hours of research. Gain competitive edge.

Company Profile – free sample

Thank you!

Your download email will arrive shortly

Not ready to buy yet? Download a free sample

We are confident about the unique quality of our Company Profiles. However, we want you to make the most beneficial decision for your business, so we offer a free sample that you can download by submitting the below form

By GlobalData
Visit our Privacy Policy for more information about our services, how we may use, process and share your personal data, including information of your rights in respect of your personal data and how you can unsubscribe from future marketing communications. Our services are intended for corporate subscribers and you warrant that the email address submitted is your corporate email address.