Shandong, Taiwan seek to advance agricultural cooperation

A cross-Strait event focused on modern agriculture was held in Weifang, Shandong province, on Aug 31, as part of the city's efforts to build a platform for agricultural cooperation between North China and the Taiwan region.

More than 180 agricultural leaders, scholars, farmers, youth representatives, leading agricultural enterprises and operators of new agricultural businesses from both sides of the Taiwan Strait took part, sharing insights and exploring opportunities for cooperation.

People attend the cross-Strait event focused on modern agriculture on Aug 31. [Photo/chinadaily.com.cn]

The event was chaired by Yu Dongju, vice-chairwoman of the Weifang Municipal Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference. Speakers, including Weifang Vice-mayor Chen Duanmei and Chang Yu-cheng, chairman of the Taiwan Brand Agriculture Promotion Association, shared their perspectives on advancing cross-Strait cooperation in modern agriculture.

The event was held at the Institute of Advanced Agricultural Science in Weifang's Xiashan Economic Development Zone. Co-established by Peking University and the Shandong provincial government, the institute connects the university's research strengths with Weifang's agricultural resources, providing a platform for agricultural cooperation between Shandong and Taiwan.

A participant discusses eco-friendly leek cultivation with an employee of a local company in Weifang during the event on Aug 31. [Photo/chinadaily.com.cn] 

Business matchmaking, agricultural product showcases and tastings, project signings and field visits were among the activities. Participants held focused discussions, one-on-one meetings and business negotiations across four areas: agriculture, culture and tourism integration; healthcare and wellness; food processing; and smart agriculture.

The event formed part of the 30th Shandong-Taiwan Economic and Trade Fair from Aug 31 to Sept 3, which features a series of activities focusing on industrial integration, modern agriculture, green chemicals, the marine economy, smart manufacturing, youth entrepreneurship and vocational education.