- Grain and livestock production rose steadily in Q1 2025, ensuring food security.
- Rural incomes and investments saw solid year-on-year growth.
- Major projects boosted consumption and poverty alleviation efforts.
In the first quarter of 2025, China’s agriculture sector maintained stable growth, with strong output in grain, livestock, milk, and aquatic products. This consistent production underpinned domestic food security and contributed to the broader economic stability.
Investment in rural infrastructure and the agricultural processing industry accelerated, fueled by high-standard farmland projects and modern facility development.
Driving Rural Revival: China’s Q1 Agricultural and Economic Surge
China’s Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs reported that the nation’s agricultural sector has made a strong start in 2025, with stable winter wheat and rapeseed planting helping to lay the groundwork for the targeted 700 million tonnes of grain output. This aligns with China’s broader goal of food self-sufficiency amid global supply uncertainties.
Beyond crop production, livestock and aquatic sectors showed solid growth, with meat, milk, and aquatic output increasing year on year. These gains ensured adequate domestic supply of essential food products, supporting stable food prices and rural livelihoods.
The expansion of agricultural processing by 7.2% and a 16% rise in primary industry fixed-asset investment point to deeper structural upgrades in rural economies. Projects aimed at modernizing agriculture are also unlocking new employment and income opportunities in underdeveloped areas.
Rural consumption also showed momentum, with retail sales climbing 4.9% year on year. The sustained rise in rural disposable income—up 6.5%—highlights the emerging role of rural China in driving internal economic circulation, making it a critical pillar in the country’s development strategy.
“The greater the risks and challenges we face, the more we need to stabilize the basic foundations of agriculture, rural areas and farmers.” – Pan Wenbo
China’s rural economy is not just holding steady—it’s evolving. With rising output, incomes, and investment, rural revitalization is becoming a key lever in national resilience.
