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
