Facing global challenges such as climate change and food security, China is sharing its agricultural technologies and expertise with developing countries. From advanced breeding research in Hainan to “Science and Technology Backyards” in Africa, China is helping Global South nations build their own paths toward sustainable and resilient agriculture.
Building a Hub for Modern Breeding Technologies
Located in Sanya, Hainan Province, the National Nanfan Breeding Research Base serves as the cradle for over 70 percent of China’s major crop varieties. Often called the “chip” of agriculture, this base represents China’s commitment to modern breeding innovation.
Advanced biotechnologies, including genome editing and molecular marker assisted breeding, are developed alongside Hainan’s unique year round growing conditions, which accelerate breeding cycles. This combination has created an efficient model for developing high yield, stress tolerant crops.
With supportive policies under the Hainan Free Trade Port, including regulations to promote the seed industry and the construction of a global germplasm resource introduction and transit center, China has become an important hub for countries in the Global South seeking resilient seed resources.
Transferring Agricultural Knowledge Through Local Adaptation
China’s approach goes beyond providing aid. It focuses on helping partner countries build their own capacity for agricultural innovation through locally adapted technology models.
Science and Technology Backyards Going Global
Led by China Agricultural University, 16 international Science and Technology Backyards have been established in 13 countries across the Global South. The “1 3 5 1” model (one problem, 30 farming households, five agricultural technicians, one 100 mu demonstration field) ensures that technology stays local and talent grows locally.
Sharing Climate Resilient Technologies
Drought tolerant rice, Juncao technology (mushroom grass), and smart farm management systems have been successfully introduced in Africa, Southeast Asia, and Latin America. These technologies help smallholder farmers cope with the impacts of climate change.
Popularizing Smart Agriculture Tools
Affordable Chinese made agricultural drones, AI powered pest and disease identification systems, and soil sensors are being adopted in countries such as Namibia, Indonesia, and Brazil, improving production efficiency while keeping costs low.
Participating in Global Agricultural Governance
China works through multilateral mechanisms to support Global South countries in gaining a stronger voice in agricultural rule making.
At platforms including the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations and the BRICS mechanism, China advocates for the principle of “common but differentiated responsibilities” and opposes unilateral trade barriers that disadvantage developing nations.
China supports developing countries in participating in negotiations on international plant variety protection and access and benefit sharing of germplasm resources, helping them safeguard their food sovereignty.
China also aligns its 15th Five Year Plan goals on green and digital agriculture with the needs of the Global South, promoting mutual recognition of technical standards and fostering collaboration.
Fostering an Open and Collaborative Innovation Ecosystem
The Sanya Yazhou Bay Science and Technology City has brought together over 2,800 seed related enterprises, forming an integrated industry chain covering research, breeding, promotion, and service. It has become an important node for agricultural technology cooperation within the Global South.
Through a full service CRO (contract research organization) system, China offers partner countries one stop technical support, from gene sequencing to variety approval.
Institutional innovations such as “cloud based land assessment” and “standard land approval” lower the barriers for international cooperation, attracting research institutions from Global South countries to participate in breeding projects led by Chinese partners.
Looking Ahead
China’s agricultural cooperation with the Global South is not about imposing a single model. It is about sharing experience, providing options, and supporting local innovation.
Partner countries retain full ownership of their agricultural development paths. China’s role is to help them adopt and adapt proven technologies to their local conditions, turning challenges such as climate change and food insecurity into opportunities for sustainable growth.
These efforts reflect a broader shift in South South cooperation: from one way aid to mutual learning, from technology transfer to shared innovation. As the Global South rises, China is committed to walking this path together with its partners, building a more food secure and resilient future for all.