China introduced a revitalization strategy at the beginning of this year in hopes of jump-starting its relatively under-developed rural economy. --So, just how is the strategy working out so far? Michelle van den bergh has the details.      

Food security is one of the top priorities for the Chinese government. Official data shows China's grain output is expected to surpass the 600 million ton level this year. That's 445 kilograms per person, 45 kilograms above the international security line.  

HAN CHANGFU, MINISTER MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE & RURAL AFFAIRS "The agricultural sector is the cornerstone of China's national economic and social development. Food security is an un-neglectable part of the agricultural industry. Only when food security is guaranteed can we fight against economic risks, both home and abroad."  

The minister said that China's rural economy remains relatively backward. That's despite a fast-expanding industrial sector and an increasing urbanization level. However, the minister also said that there's huge potential in China's rural areas. Government data shows that more than 28 million farmers are working in "new industries", including countryside tourism and e-commerce. Data also shows 290 million people working in China's urban regions are from rural areas. That workforce provided crucial support for such sectors as manufacturing and construction.  

HAN CHANGFU, MINISTER MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE & RURAL AFFAIRS "Currently, the Chinese government is rolling out environmental protection programs, part of the revitalization strategy, in rural areas. An estimated 3 trillion yuan of investment is about to be pumped into those projects. The market demand is huge."

China is one of the world's major markets for agricultural products. China is also the world's number one importer of soybeans, cotton and sugar. Analysts say the Chinese government has put high stakes in propping up its rural economy through its revitalization strategy. Chinese officials also said a growing agricultural sector can not only meet its domestic demands but also can create many job opportunities for other nations through international cooperation.