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China is increasingly utilizing artificial intelligence (AI) to address the economic disparity between its rural and urban areas. The goal is to accelerate the adoption of AI in agriculture to improve the lives of farmers.

AI as a key driver for rural economic development

China is actively leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) technology to ensure that its rural population of approximately 450 million people is not left behind by the nation's economic boom. Many farmers are already benefiting from AI services such as DeepSeek and ByteDance's Doubao to help with various agricultural issues, including pig rearing, pest control, and government subsidies. This is expected to lead to increased agricultural productivity and income for rural residents.

Accelerating the transition to digital agriculture

The Chinese State Council's 'No 1 document' of 2026 emphasized the push for the 'digital upgrading' of farming, with a focus on greater integration of AI, drones, and robots in the agricultural sector. This policy support is expected to play a crucial role in promoting agricultural modernization and reducing economic disparities in rural areas. The Chinese government aims to enhance agricultural efficiency through the adoption of advanced technologies, ultimately improving the quality of life for rural inhabitants.

*Source: SCMP (2026-03-16)*

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