Feb 2 – The Chinese central government released the No.1 Document for 2012 with a focus on agricultural technology and innovation. Highlights include:

• More resources will be allocated to enhance the development of agriculture and encourage scientific research and innovation in the agricultural sector.

• The government will quicken the pace of constructing water-conservation facilities, treat rivers and lakes, strengthen reservoirs, prevent geological disasters and increase the areas that have access to irrigation.

• China will push for agricultural mechanization by boosting credit support for the purchase of machinery.

Watch out for a review on Agriculture and our 2011 Year in Review in our February newsletter.