The State and Prospects of Corn Production Development in China: Analysis of Grain Balance

Corn, as one of the primary cereal crops alongside rice and wheat, plays a crucial role in the economy of the People’s Republic of China and serves as a strategic resource for advancing the country’s agricultural sector. Corn grain is utilized not only for food production but also as livestock feed, which is especially vital for the growth of animal husbandry in the country. Additionally, corn is extensively used across various industrial sectors In China. Recently, China has emerged as the second-largest producer of corn globally and the largest importer of this agricultural crop, underscoring its importance in the nation’s agricultural economy. This article presents a comprehensive study of corn production, consumption, import, and export In China from 2000 to 2021. Special attention is given to the geographical distribution of corn-growing areas, which helps to understand which regions of the country play a key role in its production. The analysis shows that over the past two decades, corn production In China has significantly increased, which is associated with the adoption of modern agricultural technologies, increased yields, and the expansion of cultivated areas. However, the growth in domestic consumption and demand for corn, driven by the development of animal husbandry and industry, has led to an increase in the import of this agricultural crop, underscoring China's dependence on external markets. As a result of the study, key trends and prospects for the dynamics of the resource balance and use of corn in the People's Republic of China have been identified.

People’s Republic of China, PRC, agriculture, food balance, grain, corn, production, self-sufficiency