Global experts praised China’s innovation in sustainable agriculture at the first UN Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) Global Exhibition in Rome, Italy. They said China has successfully linked ecological protection with rural revitalisation.
The exhibition, themed “From Seeds to Foods,” ran from Oct. 10 to 13. It marked both World Food Day and the FAO’s 80th anniversary. More than 200 exhibitors from 140 countries took part. They presented over 500 products from crops, livestock, forestry, and aquaculture.
One major highlight was China’s Geographical Indications Environment & Sustainability System (GIES). It was developed by the Institute of Geographic Sciences and Natural Resources Research under the Chinese Academy of Sciences. The system uses geospatial tracing, big data, the Internet of Things, and artificial intelligence. It also helps protect the ecology behind geographical indication products.
Today, GIES supports 26 demonstration sites across China. It promotes eco-friendly production and increases product value, and builds consumer trust. In addition, it serves as one of FAO Asia-Pacific’s three knowledge platforms under the “One Country One Priority Product” program.
Ken Shimizu, FAO representative for Bhutan and Nepal, said both countries are now using GIES. They are the first in the world outside China to do so. “It will help quinoa farmers in Bhutan and large cardamom farmers in Nepal,” he said. “We thank China for sharing GIES technology and training.”
Indonesian Minister for National Development Planning Rachmat Pambudy also praised the system. He said it boosts the recognition and marketability of local products. It also highlights their unique regional traits. Therefore, Indonesia is now adopting GIES to drive agricultural modernisation.
Wang Shenglin, deputy director of the Institute, noted that the system reflects China’s commitment to science-driven sustainability. “It turns local knowledge into global value chains,” he said. “It supports FAO’s goal of ‘Better Production, Better Nutrition, a Better Environment, and a Better Life’.”
Yet, global hunger remains a serious challenge. Last year, one in twelve people worldwide went hungry, said Gerardine Mukeshimana, vice president of the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD). IFAD, a UN agency, works to end poverty and hunger in rural areas.
Mukeshimana praised China’s success in ending absolute poverty. She called it “a strong model for other developing countries.” She also said IFAD partners with China to share proven technologies. In addition, they work together to empower young people and women in farming.
In short, China’s innovation and global cooperation are driving change. Step by step, they are helping build a more sustainable, inclusive, and hunger-free world.
Written by Yi Shen, additional reporting by China Daily.
If you liked this article, why not read: European Perspectives Enrich the World of China Studies
