China is spending 10 billion yuan (US$1.5 billion) in farmer subsidies to support spring grain planting, according to Bloomberg, citing the country’s agriculture ministry. Grain growers, including individuals, family farms, and cooperatives, will be eligible for the funds. Individuals and organizations that provide services for planting, growing, and harvesting will also qualify.
The country has also launched a three-year campaign to further cut the use of soybeans in animal feed as it seeks to reduce its reliance on imports and increase food security. The government aims to cut the amount of soymeal used in feed to below 13% by 2025, from 14.5% in 2022, according to the ag ministry.
China buys more than 80% of its soybeans from overseas, chiefly from farmers in Brazil and the US. The beans are crushed into meal as the main source of protein in livestock rations, and into oil for cooking and condiments.
The alternatives to meal are wide ranging, from lab-developed micro-proteins and amino acids to kitchen waste and even dead animals and their blood. Pilot programs on turning discarded food into animal feed will be launched in 10 cities next year, the ministry said. Another effort will trial using carcasses as a source of protein for livestock.
Swapping in grass is another avenue being explored. Beijing will continue to push farmers to switch from growing grain on some land, with a goal to produce 98 million tons of high-quality feed grass by 2025.
China struggles with limited arable land to feed its huge population, and has also vowed to significantly boost production of grain and oilseeds.