(Editor’s Note: This article reflects the views of the author, Karim Badolo, and not necessarily those of CGTN.)
Smart agriculture is experiencing unprecedented growth in China. Companies are investing in research and development to offer multifunctional technologies at accessible costs. One company, based in Guangzhou, the capital of Guangdong Province, stands out as a pioneer in the manufacturing of intelligent agricultural machinery. Let’s take a closer look. A lush farm stretches along the slope of a mountain peak in the suburbs of Guangzhou. A light breeze brushes the vibrant rice plants. Agricultural machines are positioned throughout the farm. Workers scattered across the rice field engage in various activities. Some are busy activating the farm’s automated irrigation network. Vans transport equipment from one point to another. In one corner, a white container-built structure stands out. This is the experimental farm of a cutting-edge drone technology company.
Automated Agricultural Work Visiting this experimental farm on a June morning feels like stepping into a science fiction setting, as technology dominates every agricultural task. Plowing, seeding, irrigation, and the spraying of fertilizers and pesticides have been fully handled by intelligent agricultural machines for several years. Drones of various sizes perform the spraying of fertilizers and pesticides. An automated irrigation system delivers the precise amount of water needed across every corner of the rice field. New multifunctional agricultural machines carry out tasks such as weeding, plowing, and pesticide spraying. The farm staff simply monitor all activities using mobile phones and a central control room.
Companies in the smart agriculture sector offer a wide range of affordable products, including agricultural drones, unmanned ground vehicles, remote sensing drones, autopilot consoles, and intelligent fertilization systems. With a methodical and quality-driven approach, China’s smart agriculture sector is writing a golden chapter in its history. XAG’s technical director, Liu Guangzhen, explains that the company aims to make farm work easier—almost enjoyable. “Currently, our unmanned aerial agricultural vehicle can perform four main functions: spraying and spreading, aerial surveying, and transport. Its maximum payload can reach up to 80 kilograms, and its top speed can hit 13.8 meters per second,” says Mr. Liu.
Daily Innovation Thanks to innovative R&D efforts, Chinese companies have made their products more affordable. For instance, agricultural drones now use carbon fiber materials that lighten the structure, increase payload capacity, and reduce costs—enabling larger-scale production.
China’s reputation in smart agriculture technology is well established across the globe. Whether in Africa, Europe, or Asia, its expertise and innovations are highly valued. “South Africa is a highly agricultural and developed country, with favorable economic conditions. Many South African farms are interested in our products, and we’ve developed excellent local distribution partnerships,” says the company representative.
Agricultural modernization in China is an integral part of the broader Chinese-style modernization process. As President Xi Jinping emphasized during the 2025 Harvest Festival, agriculture and rural development must remain a top priority. He stressed the need to improve policies that strengthen agriculture, support farmers, and increase their incomes.
Therefore, it is essential to enhance technological support and agricultural equipment, improve overall agricultural production capacity, and promote employment and income growth for farmers. In short, rural revitalization must be reinforced at every level. Many Chinese companies have clearly understood the importance of agriculture and are investing significantly in its development.