QU Dongyu, the Director-General of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations, recently concluded a significant visit to China, aimed at fostering collaboration and knowledge sharing among FAO members to enhance agrifood systems. His itinerary included notable stops in Guangdong, Hainan, and Chongqing, where he engaged with innovative agricultural enterprises and research institutions, emphasizing the FAO’s commitment to the Four Betters: better production, better nutrition, a better environment, and a better life.
In Guangdong Province, near Guangzhou, QU visited XAG, a pioneering smart agriculture technology company. XAG leverages robotics and artificial intelligence to help farmers maximize efficiency while addressing challenges such as rural depopulation, climate change, and water scarcity. This visit underscored the potential of technology in transforming agricultural practices, particularly in regions facing significant demographic and environmental pressures. The Director-General also toured the Haid Group, a major agricultural enterprise with a global footprint, which operates in various sectors including feed production and intelligent farming. Such enterprises play a crucial role in advancing agricultural productivity and sustainability, aligning with FAO’s goals.
Another highlight was QU’s visit to the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology’s Guangzhou campus, where he explored the Brain & Metaverse Joint Innovation Lab. Engaging with academic leaders, he discussed the importance of education and research in driving sustainable agricultural practices and addressing climate change. This collaboration between academia and the FAO is vital for fostering innovative solutions and preparing future leaders in the agricultural sector.
In Shenzhen, QU toured the Agricultural Genomics Institute of the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, focusing on cutting-edge research in agricultural genomics and molecular breeding. His discussions with researchers highlighted the necessity for scientific advancements to align with real-world agricultural challenges, ensuring that innovations translate into practical solutions for farmers.
The visit to Hainan Province included a stop at the Chinese Academy of Tropical Agricultural Sciences (CATAS), where QU reaffirmed the FAO’s ongoing partnership aimed at improving the livelihoods of smallholder farmers in tropical regions. He emphasized the importance of making research and innovation accessible to those who need it most, particularly in tropical climates where smallholder farmers play a critical role in food production.
QU’s engagement at the Hunan Hybrid Rice Research Center, known for its groundbreaking work in hybrid rice development, reinforced the FAO’s dedication to food security. He encouraged researchers to build on past successes while embracing new methodologies to further enhance agricultural output.
In Chongqing, QU visited the Animal Disease Prevention and Control Center, gaining insights into veterinary support and animal husbandry development. This visit highlighted the importance of animal health in ensuring food security and the need for robust disease surveillance systems.
QU Dongyu’s visit to China not only showcased the country’s advancements in agricultural technology and research but also underscored the FAO’s commitment to global collaboration. By strengthening partnerships with innovative enterprises and academic institutions, the FAO aims to drive sustainable agricultural practices that can meet the challenges of the future, ensuring that no one is left behind in the quest for food security and environmental sustainability.