A prominent Chinese entrepreneur and member of CPPCC National Committee has emphasized the need for the private sector to capitalize on favorable policies and technological innovations to drive efficiency and meet public needs, with a focus on investing in rural industries as part of future plans.
In an exclusive interview with China Global Television Network (CGTN) on Friday in Beijing, Liu Yonghao, chairman of New Hope Group, China's agricultural conglomerate, and a member of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), the country's top political advisory body, discussed how recent favorable policies have strengthened the confidence of private enterprises, as well as his company's future direction and rural industry investments.
Liu emphasized that remarks from President Xi Jinping, during a symposium on China's private economy held on Feb 17 in Beijing, had not only offered a clear roadmap but also bolstered confidence among entrepreneurs. He also stressed the critical role of advanced technologies in driving business development.
"The confidence of private enterprises is vital. The recent policies supporting and encouraging the development of the private sector are both effective and well-targeted. Particularly at the private economy symposium, President Xi Jinping charted a new development direction for private enterprises, greatly enhancing our confidence. This is one aspect. On the other hand, with the rapid advancements in technologies like artificial intelligence (AI), how can our private companies seize opportunities from this new wave of technological progress? We must understand, embrace, and integrate AI into our enterprises. This will help boost our efficiency, speed up product transformation and upgrades to better meet the needs of the people. This is what we, as private entrepreneurs, must focus on today," Liu said.
Outlining his company's key priorities, Liu said New Hope Group will focus on improving breeding programs, reducing feed consumption, finding alternatives to soybeans, and advancing technology-driven management.
"Our goal over the next two to three years is to bring our pig breeding to international advanced standards. We also aim to reduce feed consumption and identify alternatives to soybean protein to lessen our reliance on soybean imports, giving us more flexibility. On top of that, we are intensifying efforts to use technology to improve management," the chairman said.
Liu further emphasized the company's commitment to rural revitalization, announcing plans for heavy investment in rural industries, as well as the training of new agricultural technicians and the creation of demonstration bases to support the country's broader rural development goals.
"Over the next five years, we plan to invest significantly in rural industries. We aim to assist numerous specialized rural households and family farms, train new-generation rural technicians, and establish five rural revitalization demonstration bases. All these efforts are part of a public commitment we made three years ago," Liu said.
The third session of the 14th CPPCC National Committee is scheduled to run from March 4 to 10.
Chinese entrepreneur calls for private sector to drive rural development via tech innovation
