In the heart of China’s agricultural landscape, a groundbreaking study led by Shasha Ouyang from the College of Agriculture at Guangxi University is reshaping our understanding of the spatial distribution and sustainable development drivers of China’s National Famous, Special, Excellent, and New Agricultural Products. Published in the journal *Agriculture* (translated from Chinese), this research offers a fresh perspective on how infrastructure and regional strategies can boost the competitiveness and sustainability of agricultural products.
Ouyang and her team analyzed geospatial data from 1,932 National Famous, Special, Excellent, and New Agricultural Products across China. Using advanced GIS spatial analysis techniques, they uncovered a striking pattern: a high-density concentration in the central and eastern parts of the country, with a notable sparseness in the western regions. The geographic concentration index (G = 22.95) revealed that the center of gravity of these products is located in the North China Plain, with the main distribution extending along the longitude of 110° E–120° E.
The study identified key drivers of sustainable development, with railroad mileage, highway mileage, and population size emerging as core factors. “Railroad mileage (X10) and highway mileage (X11) are crucial for the distribution and market reach of these products,” Ouyang explained. “Population size (X3) also plays a significant role, as it directly impacts market demand and economic viability.”
Three-dimensional kernel density mapping further illustrated the disparities between regions. The eastern coast and central plains formed high-density clusters due to advantages in transportation networks and market access, while the western regions showed a gradient decline due to topographical and transportation limitations.
The implications for the agricultural sector are profound. By strengthening transportation and digital logistics systems, enhancing cold-chain distribution for perishable goods, and tailoring regional branding strategies, policymakers and producers can significantly improve market competitiveness and income stability. Ouyang emphasized the need for synergy among local governments to achieve balanced regional development.
This research not only provides a quantitative assessment of China’s branded agricultural resource allocation but also offers actionable recommendations for infrastructure investment, e-commerce logistics enhancement, and targeted subsidy design. As the agricultural sector continues to evolve, these insights will be instrumental in shaping future developments and ensuring sustainable growth.
In the words of Ouyang, “This study highlights the importance of integrating geospatial analytics and geographical detectors to reveal spatial patterns and drive sustainable development in the agricultural sector.” With these findings, the path to a more competitive and sustainable agricultural future in China is becoming increasingly clear.