China's agricultural sector is facing an imbalance in which some produce are in over-supply, while others are in extreme shortage. The burgeoning animal husbandry and fishery industries across the country are examples of the glut in production. And there's now a growing voice calling for supply-side reform to address that imbalance.
Freezing temperatures outside, but this is no reason to quit shepherding. Han Jianfei has worked on his farm for the past twenty years. The business was lucrative in the early phase, each year, he sold nearly 1,000 sheep. But now, the number has fallen to 300.
Han also runs several fresh-water fisheries on the farm. But the situation is almost the same as with the sheep business.
The over-supply of fish on the market has made fishery less attractive.
"At the beginning, we sold fish directly in the market. However, we found that this could not guarantee a fixed income, as the supply and demand pattern changes from time to time," Han said.
China's agricultural production is now facing a problem of over-capacity. It means the supply of certain products is far beyond the actual demand. So the country has made supply-side reform the main focus of its agricultural strategy this year.
The supply-side reform will ensure that farmers benefit from agricultural development.
The Chinese government plans to channel more money to rural areas, and encourage private investment into agriculture projects. And the top economic planner suggests combining agriculture with secondary and service industries.
This policy is welcomed by Han Jianfei, who is now eager to make a change. And he's already getting started on building his new business.
As for the sheep business, Han plans to cooperate with online dealers. He hopes to make his own brand name from his quality products. And if all goes well, he may never quit shepherding.
