On June 12, Chen Peng, Deputy Secretary of the Hengyang Municipal Party Committee, visited Hengdong County to investigate the development of the local agricultural industry. He emphasized the need to thoroughly study and implement General Secretary Xi Jinping’s important discourses on work related to agriculture, rural areas, and farmers (the “three rural” issues). Chen called for leveraging local characteristic resources, strengthening innovation-driven development, and actively extending and expanding the agricultural industry chain to enhance agricultural efficiency, invigorate rural development, and increase farmers’ incomes.

Chen visited several key agricultural enterprises and demonstration bases, including Hengdong Huixigu Food Co., Ltd., Lihuayuan Farming and Breeding Cooperative, the Xiangyu Pumpkin Demonstration Base in Xingzhou Community, and Juweitang Food Co., Ltd. At each stop, he gained detailed insights into local specialty cuisine branding, agricultural product varieties, market performance, business operations, and their role in boosting employment.

He stressed that efforts should closely align with market demands and fully tap into the advantages of local resources to develop characteristic agricultural industries tailored to regional conditions. The agricultural value chain should be extended, and the added value of products should be enhanced to create distinctive and competitive local brands.

Chen also underscored the importance of scientific and technological innovation. He urged the introduction of new varieties, technologies, and business models, as well as the promotion of intelligent and mechanized farming practices. He encouraged increased research and development of new products and techniques to improve productivity and product quality, helping more high-quality local agricultural products reach wider markets.

Furthermore, Chen highlighted the importance of closely linking farmers with agricultural enterprises. He advocated for a robust benefit-sharing mechanism and the improvement of the “leading enterprise + cooperative + farmer” model. By fostering and expanding entities that connect and support farmers, the region can strengthen its ability to promote local employment and sustain long-term income growth for farmers.

Translator: Jing