China sets world record on strawberry cultivation area

(ECNS) -- China's strawberry cultivation area has reached nearly 200,000 hectares, ranking first in the world, said Li Tianhong, vice president of the Chinese Horticultural Society, during the 10th International Strawberry Congress held in Yancheng, east China's Jiangsu Province on Monday.

As the world's largest agriculture producer, China has an agriculture crop cultivation area of 44 hectares and an annual total output value exceeding 4 trillion yuan, accounting for over 60 percent of all planting output, Li said.

China has made significant progress in the development of new strawberry varieties, fundamental research, integrated innovation in cultivation techniques, and pest and disease control. 

The production efficiency and quality of strawberries have been greatly improved by promoting intelligent cultivation technology in China. The strawberry industry has strongly driven regional economic development and increased farmers' incomes, Li added.

Held every four years, the International Strawberry Conference regarded as the world's top event in the strawberry industry, aims to provide a platform for experts, scholars, and professionals in strawberry research, production, and trade worldwide to exchange ideas, and share achievements. (By Li Yan)