China’s grain output rises

BEIJING: China’s total grain output hit a new record this year, up 1.2 percent from 2024 to 714.9 million tons, its statistics bureau said on Friday, as Beijing prioritises higher output in its quest to achieve food security.

China is highly reliant on imports to feed its population of 1.4 billion and several trade wars with major agricultural trade partner the United States have accelerated the push at home towards self-sufficiency including investments in machinery and seed technology. Rice production in 2025 rose to 209 million tons, up 0.7 percent, while wheat output was steady at 140.1 million tons.

Corn jumped again to 301.2 million tons, up 2.1 percent from the previous year’s record of 294.92 million tons. The total sown area for grain grew 0.1 percent to 119.4 million hectares.