China
Climate change threatens China’s food security
Authors: Yu Sheng and Siying Jia, Peking University
China has achieved significant progress in ensuring food security through institutional reforms, technological advancements, and increased investment in agricultural infrastructure. From 1978 to 2022, agricultural output grew at a rate of 4.5% per year, exceeding population growth by more than four times. In 2022, China experienced a historical high in grain output, reaching 686.53 million tonnes, thereby strengthening its domestic food supply.
However, China still faces challenges in ensuring long-term food security due to increasing demand for high-value and high-protein products, limited land and water supply, issues with small farms, an aging rural population, and extreme weather events caused by climate change. Recent studies have shown that extreme rainfall has led to an 8% decrease in China’s rice crop yields over the past two decades, exacerbating concerns about food insecurity caused by pest shocks, droughts, and rising carbon emissions.
To address the challenges posed by climate change, the Chinese government has implemented three sets of measures. These measures involve improving irrigation systems, agricultural and transportation infrastructure, and promoting the adoption of climate-resilient crop varieties. The government has also invested in agricultural research and technological innovation, as well as strengthening the insurance system for agricultural production.
China has implemented public policies to transition towards a sustainable agricultural production system. In 2015, the strategy of ‘hiding grain in the ground and hiding grain in technology’ was introduced, focusing on capacity building rather than solely on output targets. Since implementing the ‘Action Plan for Zero-Growth in Fertilizer Use’ in 2015, the use of fertilizers and chemicals in agriculture has decreased by one third.
As part of its 14th Five Year Plan, China has launched a new initiative to increase domestic grain production by 50 million tonnes. This initiative includes measures to enhance farmers’ climate resilience, such as strengthening disaster prevention and mitigation capabilities, utilizing germplasm resources, implementing full-cost insurance for grain producers, and preventing non-agricultural use of arable land.
China is also considering diversifying its food sources by increasing imports of feed grains and oil crops. In 2022, China imported significant quantities of soybeans and maize to supplement its grain consumption. This strategy helps mitigate potential food shortages caused by climate-related disruptions and enhances domestic grain self-sufficiency.
Authors: Yu Sheng and Siying Jia, Peking University
Over the past four decades, China has made significant achievements in maintaining food security through institutional reforms, technological progress and increased investment in public agricultural infrastructure. Between 1978 and 2022, the total quantity of agricultural output grew at the rate of 4.5 per cent per year — more than four times the population growth over the same period. In 2022, China’s total grain output reached a historical high of 686.53 million tonnes, substantially boosting its domestic food supply.
But China still faces considerable challenges in ensuring food security, with demand for high-value and high-protein products increasing along with per capita income. Constraints in land and water supply, issues with small farms, an aging rural population and extreme weather events caused by climate change can disrupt food production and distribution. Recent studies show that extreme rainfall has led to an 8 per cent decrease in China’s rice crop yields over the past two decades, exacerbating food insecurity concerns caused by frequent pest shocks, severe droughts and rising carbon emissions.
To tackle the challenges arising from climate change, the Chinese government has implemented three sets of measures. These measures involve improving irrigation systems and other agricultural and transportation infrastructure. This includes initiatives such as channelling water from the south to the north and constructing high-standard farmland and water conservancy facilities. The government has also invested in agricultural research and technological innovation, promoting the adoption of climate-resilient crop varieties. Additionally, efforts have been made to strengthen the insurance system for agricultural production.
China has instituted public policies to actively foster the transition towards a sustainable agricultural production system. In 2015, China introduced the strategy of ‘hiding grain in the ground and hiding grain in technology’, emphasising the importance of capacity building rather than solely focusing on output targets in grain production. Since implementing the ‘Action Plan for Zero-Growth in Fertilizer Use’ in 2015, the use of fertilisers and chemicals in agriculture has reduced by one third.
As part of its 14th Five Year Plan, China has launched a new initiative aimed at increasing domestic grain production by an additional 50 million tonnes. Several new policies have been implemented in conjunction with this campaign to enhance farmers’ climate resilience. These measures include strengthening disaster prevention and mitigation capabilities by adopting ICT technologies, better utilising germplasm resources, constructing seed banks, implementing full-cost insurance for grain producers in food-deficient counties and preventing the use of arable land for non-agriculture purposes.
China is also considering diversifying its food sources through increasing imports of feed grains and oil crops. In 2022, China imported 91 million tonnes of soybean and 20.6 million tonnes of maize, which accounted for about 14 per cent of its total grain consumption. While this campaign helps mitigate potential food shortages caused by climate-related disruptions in the short run by bolstering domestic grain self-sufficiency, the long-term effects of these…
Business
Gordonstoun Severs Connections with Business Led by Individual Accused of Espionage for China
Gordonstoun school severed ties with Hampton Group over espionage allegations against chairman Yang Tengbo. He denies involvement and claims to be a victim of political tensions between the UK and China.
Allegations Lead to School’s Decision
Gordonstoun School in Moray has cut ties with Hampton Group International after serious allegations surfaced regarding its chairman, Yang Tengbo, who is accused of being a spy for the Chinese government. Known by the alias "H6," Mr. Tengbo was involved in a deal that aimed to establish five new schools in China affiliated with Gordonstoun. However, the recent allegations compelled the school to terminate their agreement.
Public Denial and Legal Action
In response to the spying claims, Mr. Tengbo publicly revealed his identity, asserting that he has committed no wrongdoing. A close associate of Prince Andrew and a former Gordonstoun student himself, Mr. Tengbo has strenuously denied the accusations, stating that he is a target of the escalating tensions between the UK and China. He has claimed that his mistreatment is politically motivated.
Immigration Challenges and Legal Responses
Yang Tengbo, also known as Chris Yang, has faced additional challenges regarding his immigration status in the UK. After losing an appeal against a ban enacted last year, he reiterated his innocence, condemning media speculation while emphasizing his commitment to clear his name. Gordonstoun, on its part, stated its inability to divulge further details due to legal constraints.
Source : Gordonstoun cuts ties with business chaired by man accused of spying for China
Business
China Dismantles Prominent Uyghur Business Landmark in Xinjiang – Shia Waves
The Chinese government demolished the Rebiya Kadeer Trade Center in Xinjiang, affecting Uyghur culture and commerce, prompting criticism from activists amid concerns over cultural erasure and human rights violations.
Demolition of a Cultural Landmark
The Chinese government recently demolished the Rebiya Kadeer Trade Center in Urumqi, Xinjiang, a vital hub for Uyghur culture and commerce, as reported by VOA. This center, once inhabited by more than 800 predominantly Uyghur-owned businesses, has been deserted since 2009. Authorities forcibly ordered local business owners to vacate the premises before proceeding with the demolition, which took place without any public notice.
Condemnation from Activists
Uyghur rights activists have condemned this demolition, perceiving it as part of China’s broader strategy to undermine Uyghur identity and heritage. The event has sparked heightened international concern regarding China’s policies in Xinjiang, which have been characterized by allegations of mass detentions and cultural suppression, prompting claims of crimes against humanity.
Rebiya Kadeer’s Response
Rebiya Kadeer, the center’s namesake and a notable Uyghur rights advocate, criticized the demolition as a deliberate attempt to erase her legacy. Kadeer, who has been living in exile in the U.S. since her release from imprisonment in 2005, continues to advocate for Uyghur rights. She has expressed that her family members have suffered persecution due to her activism, while the Chinese government has yet to comment on the legal ramifications of the demolition.
Source : China Demolishes Uyghur Business Landmark in Xinjiang – Shia Waves
China
China Expands Nationwide Private Pension Scheme After Two-Year Pilot Program
China’s private pension scheme, previously piloted in 36 cities, will roll out nationwide on December 15, 2024, enabling workers to open tax-deferred accounts. The initiative aims to enhance retirement savings, address aging population challenges, and stimulate financial sector growth.
After a two-year pilot program, China has officially expanded its private pension scheme nationwide. Starting December 15, 2024, workers covered by urban employee basic pension insurance or urban-rural resident basic pension insurance across the country can participate in this supplementary pension scheme. This nationwide rollout represents a significant milestone in China’s efforts to build a comprehensive pension system, addressing the challenges of a rapidly aging population.
On December 12, 2024, the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security, together with four other departments including the Ministry of Finance, the State Taxation Administration, the Financial Regulatory Administration, and the China Securities Regulatory Commission, announced the nationwide implementation of China’s private pension scheme effective December 15, 2024. The initiative extends eligibility to all workers enrolled in urban employee basic pension insurance or urban-rural resident basic pension insurance.
A notable development is the expansion of tax incentives for private pensions, previously limited to pilot cities, to a national scale. Participants can now enjoy these benefits across China, with government agencies collaborating to ensure seamless implementation and to encourage broad participation through these enhanced incentives.
China first introduced its private pension scheme in November 2022 as a pilot program covering 36 cities and regions, including major hubs like Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Xi’an, and Chengdu. Under the program, individuals were allowed to open tax-deferred private pension accounts, contributing up to RMB 12,000 (approximately $1,654) annually to invest in a range of retirement products such as bank deposits, mutual funds, commercial pension insurance, and wealth management products.
Read more about China’s private pension pilot program launched two years ago: China Officially Launches New Private Pension Scheme – Who Can Take Part?
The nationwide implementation underscores the Chinese government’s commitment to addressing demographic challenges and promoting economic resilience. By providing tax advantages and expanding access, the scheme aims to incentivize long-term savings and foster greater participation in personal retirement planning.
The reform is expected to catalyze growth in China’s financial and insurance sectors while offering individuals a reliable mechanism to enhance their retirement security.
| This article was first published by China Briefing , which is produced by Dezan Shira & Associates. The firm assists foreign investors throughout Asia from offices across the world, including in in China, Hong Kong, Vietnam, Singapore, and India . Readers may write to info@dezshira.com for more support. |
Read the rest of the original article.
- Gordonstoun Severs Connections with Business Led by Individual Accused of Espionage for China
- China Dismantles Prominent Uyghur Business Landmark in Xinjiang – Shia Waves
- China Expands Nationwide Private Pension Scheme After Two-Year Pilot Program
- How a scandal over sanitary pads is shaping feminist activism in China
- Yakult Unveils Restructuring Plans for Its China Operations | ESM Magazine
- Italy’s Strategic Shift Towards China After Exiting the Belt and Road Initiative