China’s Agricultural Economy Off to a Sound Start in Q1 2026

Beijing, 23 April — China’s agricultural and rural economy has maintained a steady growth momentum in the first quarter of 2026, with smooth spring ploughing, ample supply of non‑staple food, and well‑targeted poverty alleviation efforts, officials announced at a State Council Information Office press conference.

According to the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, spring farming is progressing at a stable pace. Nationwide, over 20 percent of the planned grain sowing has been completed, slightly faster than the same period last year. 

Winter wheat growth has recovered to average levels, while winter rapeseed areas remain stable and in good condition. The total intended grain planting area for 2026 is projected to stay steady, underpinning national food security.

The “vegetable basket” supply remains abundant. In Q1, the output of pork, beef, mutton and poultry reached 26.62 million tonnes, up 4.8 percent year on year, while milk output rose 3.4 percent to 9.22 million tonnes. 

Aquatic production hit 15.47 million tonnes, a 4.3 percent increase, and vegetable and fruit supplies are sufficient with seasonal price fluctuations.

Regular and targeted assistance has got off to a solid start. In the first quarter, 10.13 billion yuan in microloans was issued to support low‑income groups, and employment among assisted households remained stable. Rural residents’ per capita disposable income rose by 5.4 percent in real terms, outpacing some urban consumption indicators.

Agricultural investment and industrial performance have strengthened. 

Fixed‑asset investment in the primary industry increased by 15.9 percent year on year. The value‑added of above‑scale agricultural food processing industries grew by 6.8 percent, and online retail sales of agricultural products continued expanding.

“Since the start of the year, we have advanced rural revitalisation across the board,” said Mardan Mugaity, Vice Minister of Agriculture and Rural Affairs. “The agricultural sector’s strong start provides solid support for high‑quality economic development in 2026.”