World Food Day, observed on October 16, highlights the importance of global food security. This is an area in which China plays a vital role by feeding nearly 18 percent of the world's population with a quarter of the total food production on less than 9 percent of the planet's arable land. 

In 2023, China's grain output hit a record 695 million tonnes, marking the ninth consecutive year of production staying above 650 million tonnes. For 2024, the country has set the same target, reinforcing its commitment to stable food supply.

Protecting farmland is a top priority. China has drawn a firm red line, ensuring no less than 1.8 billion mu (120 million hectares) remains dedicated to agriculture, preventing land from being repurposed for non-agricultural use.

The country's focus on modernizing agriculture has also led to impressive progress. With over 73 percent of agricultural cultivation and harvesting now mechanized, China's farms are increasingly efficient. Around 1.8 million machines are equipped with the BeiDou Navigation Satellite System, driving further advancements in precision farming.