Original title: Han Changfu: I Am Also Eating Genetically Modified Soybean Oil
At a press conference held at the Information Center of the two associations on the 6th, Minister of Agriculture Han Changfu addressed questions raised by Chinese and foreign reporters. He responded to public concerns regarding food security, land circulation, "safety at the tip of the tongue," genetically modified foods, and agricultural subsidies.
**Food Security**
Han Changfu emphasized that China’s approach to ensuring food security remains consistent and unwavering. He stated that the "rice bowl" of the Chinese people must be firmly in their own hands, with the main content being domestically produced food. Although grain imports have increased in recent years, the total amount is relatively small—around 13 million tons last year. He explained that while China will make proper use of the international market due to growing consumption and limited resources, self-reliance remains the core strategy.
He expressed confidence in China’s food security, citing the three pillars of policy, technology, and infrastructure, along with the protection of arable land as key factors.
**Land Circulation**
Han Changfu warned against the "Great Leap Forward" in rural land circulation, stressing the need for orderly and reasonable expansion. He pointed out that some local governments impose unrealistic targets, which can lead to dissatisfaction among farmers. He emphasized that land transfer should match the local labor force capacity, technical level, and social service capabilities.
The process should be legal, voluntary, and paid, with peasants retaining the final say on price, duration, and terms of transfer.
**Agricultural Subsidies**
The minister announced that agricultural subsidies will be directed toward professional farmers and new types of agricultural operators. He mentioned that the goal is to support those who grow grain, focusing on stabilizing existing stock and adjusting future growth. Subsidies will increasingly go to large-scale grain producers and modern agribusinesses.
He noted that agricultural support is an international practice, and China has significantly increased its direct subsidies, reaching over 160 billion yuan last year.
**Genetically Modified Foods**
When asked if he personally consumes genetically modified foods, Han Changfu responded honestly, stating that he also uses genetically modified soybean oil. He emphasized that the Ministry of Agriculture takes a cautious approach to genetic modification—encouraging research and independent innovation but proceeding with caution in promotion to ensure safety.
China has established a comprehensive regulatory system covering all stages from research to import licensing and product labeling. The government follows a gradual approach, starting with non-edible crops, then moving to feed and processed raw materials, and finally to food crops, with extra care for staple crops.
**Food Safety**
Han Changfu acknowledged that food safety issues still occur, but the overall safety of agricultural products has improved over time. Measures such as cracking down on harmful additives, promoting mechanical milking, and encouraging large-scale farming have yielded positive results.
He stressed the need for continued efforts, including promoting standardized production and strengthening law enforcement. The Ministry of Agriculture is also working on soil pollution control, conducting surveys and identifying areas affected by heavy metal contamination.
**Avian Influenza**
Regarding the challenges faced by the poultry industry due to avian influenza, Han Changfu expressed concern and stated that supportive policies are being prepared for poultry farms and processing enterprises. He urged the media to avoid spreading fear and reminded the public that properly sourced and inspected poultry is safe to eat.
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