China's food supply is not impacted by the U.S. tariffs as the country has focused on self-sufficiency with strong domestic grain production, while imports from the United States account for only a small proportion, an official from the National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC) told a press conference in Beijing on Monday.
Zhao Chenxin, deputy head of the NDRC, stressed that the so-called "reciprocal tariffs" imposed by the U.S. will not threaten China's national food security, saying the country is now largely self-reliant in this regard.
"In terms of food, we always uphold the national food security strategy that focuses on self-sufficiency based on domestic grain production and ensures production capacity, moderate imports, and scientific and technological support. We have exercised the most strict farmland protection system and implemented the food crop production strategy of improving farmland management and increasing the application of technology. We continue to enhance our overall grain production capacity, improve a food circulation system, strengthen government reserves management, and promote the diversification of import sources," he said.
The official also noted that China's grain production has seen stable development for a number of years while the annual grain output in fact reached a record high in 2024, with a grain harvest of over 700 million tonnes (over 700 billion kilograms) being recorded, according to data from the National Bureau of Statistics.
"Our grain production has secured a bumper harvest for 21 years in a row. In 2024, our grain production for the first time exceeded 1.4 trillion jin (700 billion kilograms). Currently, the per capita share of grain in China is over 500 kilograms, much higher than the international food security line of 400 kilograms. Basic self-sufficiency in grain and absolute security in staple foods has been achieved. Indeed, we can ensure that the 'rice bowl' (food supply) of the Chinese people will always be firmly held in our own hands," he said.
Zhao also said that the tariffs imposed by the Trump administration will not cause huge disruption in terms of food security, noting that there are alternative options while stressing that U.S. imports do not make up a significant share in this field.
"In 2024, the imports of sorghum, corn, soybeans, and other grains from the United States accounted for a very small proportion of China's domestic grain consumption, and most of these were primarily used as animal feed. They are easy to find alternative with sufficient supply in the international market. At the same time, we also have sufficient domestic grain reserve resources. Even if China does not purchase feed grains and oil from the United States, our food supply will not be impacted," he said.
China's food security not impacted by US tariffs as country focuses on self-sufficiency: NDRC official
The U.S. military strike against Venezuela and capture of its president, Nicolas Maduro, has shocked the international community, triggering a steady stream of condemnation and serious concerns worldwide.
Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Mexico, Uruguay and Spain issued a joint statement on Sunday, expressing serious concern about and firm opposition to the U.S. unilateral military operations in Venezuela.
The U.S. actions contravene fundamental principles of international law, particularly the prohibition on the use or threat of force, and respect for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of States, as enshrined in the UN Charter, constituting an extremely dangerous precedent against peace and regional security, according to the statement.
In expressing profound concern and firm rejection, the six countries stressed in the statement that the situation in Venezuela must be resolved exclusively by peaceful means, and through dialogue, negotiation and respect for the will of the Venezuelan people in all its expressions, without external interference and in accordance with international law.
Only an inclusive political process, led by Venezuelans, can lead to a democratic, sustainable solution that respects human dignity, according to the statement.
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez condemned the U.S. raid in Venezuela as a violation of international law, adding that the Spanish government always advocates and defends international law and peaceful resolution of conflicts.
Addressing a meeting of the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States (CELAC), Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodriguez demanded the unconditional and immediate release of Maduro and his wife.
Noting that Latin America and the Caribbean are a zone of peace, he expressed his firm opposition to the use of force, which is an unshakable principle.
Any aggression against Venezuela shall be regarded as an attack against all CELAC member states, and nations must collectively oppose it, he stressed.
The South African government denounced the U.S. attack on Venezuela as a violation of international law, according to a statement released on Sunday.
History has repeatedly demonstrated that military invasions against sovereign states yield only instability and deepening crisis, the statement said.
South Africa calls on the UN Security Council to urgently convene a session to address this situation, according to the statement.
Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic said what happened in Venezuela demonstrates that international law and the UN Charter are losing their practical effectiveness.
U.S. military action against Venezuela marks a dangerous precedent, as similar actions could be taken against any other nations, he said.
In addition, the foreign ministries of Namibia, Singapore, Oman and Pakistan also issued statements on the same day, expressing grave concern over U.S. interference in Venezuela's internal affairs.
They emphasized the need to uphold international law and the principles of the UN Charter while respecting Venezuela's sovereignty.
They also called on all parties to exercise restraint and resolve the crisis through peaceful dialogue.
U.S. move against Venezuela sparks condemnation, concerns worldwide
