context: The 2025 No.1 Document outlines the latest strategy for rural revitalisation and agricultural modernisation, introducing new quality agricultural productive forces, one of 2024's key policy memes, for the first time. This marks a shift toward technology-driven agricultural growth alongside the familiar calls for deepened land reforms, strengthened food security measures and enhanced urban-rural integration.
Reform remains central to rural revitalisation, argues Jin Wencheng 金文成 Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs Rural Economy Research Centre director.
This year’s document focuses on land system reform through the 'three types of land' (contracted land, homestead land and collective construction land). In trial areas, contract extensions for 30 years will be expanded, aiming to stabilise land tenure, standardise transfers and encourage moderate-scale farming to support agricultural modernisation.
For the first time, the document introduces the concept of new quality agricultural productive forces, reflecting a strategic push for technological transformation. Jin highlights that biotechnological breeding, drones, AI and digital agriculture will accelerate modernisation.
Higher agricultural productivity is critical to food security, stresses Lin Wanlong 林万龙 China Agricultural University vice president. Advanced technologies will drive efficiency and competitiveness.
Digital technology is reshaping agriculture, notes Tu Shengwei 涂圣伟 National Development and Reform Commission researcher. Digital ag promotes standardisation, scaling and greater integration with rural industries.
Ensuring grain security remains a core priority. The document calls for higher yields through full-process improvements in tilling, sowing, harvesting and management.
Tu emphasises that this approach will boost efficiency and stabilise production. The policy also strengthens food production infrastructure to safeguard long-term security and maintain PRC agricultural momentum.
The document also underscores county-level industries as key to bridging urban and rural development.
Counties are now critical hubs for rural revitalisation, contends Jin, with integrated supply chains and infrastructure supporting economic growth.
Developing county-level industries will boost employment, improve rural economies and enhance living standards, adds Lin.
Tu sees this as a key mechanism for urban-rural economic integration, strengthening rural industry competitiveness and sustainability.