The 20th China International Agricultural Trade Fair (CATF), co-hosted by the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs (MARA) of China and Shandong Provincial People’s Government, kicked off in Qingdao, Shandong Province, on Nov. 9. A forum on strengthening agriculture was also held, which centered on “invigorating agriculture through agro-industrialization and boosting specialty industries.” Tang Renjian, Minister of MARA, delivered a keynote speech via video. 

Minister Tang emphasized the necessity to prioritize the revitalization of rural businesses and build a modern rural industrial system featuring distinctive strengths, high-quality products, and a complete industrial chain. He put forth three points regarding boosting specialty industries: First, it is essential to pull the threads of local culture, and try to develop local, organic and original products that highlight local distinctiveness, maintain local traditions and customs, and reflect local culture. Second, it is essential to identify the unique qualities of specialty products and develop products that stand out for their uniqueness, high quality, and varied market demand, and pull together resources to increase their popularity. Third, it is essential to extend the industrial chain and promote primary processing, deep processing, and the utilization of agricultural by-products in a coordinated manner. 

Zhang Xingwang, Vice Minister of MARA, presided over the forum. Chen Ping, Vice Governor of Shandong Province, attended the forum and delivered remarks. Fu Wanjun, President of the Agricultural Bank of China, Zhang Hui, Deputy Secretary of the CPC Qingdao Municipal Committee, You Wei, Vice President of COFCO Corporation, and corporate representatives, experts, scholars, and primary-level officials, among others, delivered keynote speeches and engaged in discussions.  

The theme of this year’s CATF was “Embark on a new journey—advance agriculture for rural revitalization”. The fair covered an exhibition area of around 120,000 square meters and hosted nearly 3,000 exhibitors. Over 30 promotional events were held during the fair, which lasted four days, including the release and promotion of agricultural brands and the launch of some new China State Farm brands.