Weifang has solidified its role as the driving force behind China's agricultural modernization. Home to China's first and only national-level comprehensive pilot zone for agricultural opening-up and development, the city has become a global hub for innovation, international collaboration, and the export of advanced farming expertise.

Since its approval in 2018, the National Comprehensive Pilot Agriculture Zone (Weifang) has gained international recognition for its pioneering efforts. Beyond merely exporting crops, the city is now a leader in setting international agricultural standards and sharing high-tech resources globally.

Weifang's agricultural products now reach 148 countries and regions, with the number of agricultural export enterprises increasing to 1,480. Exports rose from 17.03 billion yuan ($2.4 billion) in 2019 to 29.46 billion yuan in 2024. Additionally, over 80 Weifang-based agricultural enterprises have established industrial parks or R&D centers overseas.

In Auckland, New Zealand, a 5,000-square-meter greenhouse is being built using technology from Shouguang-based Lisente Greenhouse, marking the third such project in the country. Wang Shoubo, chairman of Lisente, stated, "Our advanced greenhouse solutions, developed in Shouguang, have been adopted in over 40 countries and regions, including the United States, Russia, and Uzbekistan, with 272 greenhouses constructed so far."

A cutting-edge greenhouse in Turkmenistan, powered by advanced technology from Weifang's Lisente Greenhouse. [Photo/Xinpai]

Through these growing connections, Weifang is exporting more than just products — it is sharing valuable knowledge. This spring, agricultural officials from countries like Fiji and Cuba visited the pilot zone for training, gaining hands-on experience with advanced technologies such as water and fertilizer control systems and automatic seeding machines.

To date, the zone has trained 16,000 agricultural technicians from around the world, who return to their countries equipped with "Weifang expertise" to modernize their local food systems.

The National Comprehensive Pilot Agriculture Zone (Weifang) symbolizes China's commitment to global development. By driving innovation and fostering sustainable practices, the city is not just shaping the future of Chinese farming — it is contributing to the broader goal of global food security.