China is advancing its agricultural sector by integrating artificial intelligence (AI) into crop breeding, aiming to develop high-yield, climate-resilient “super crops.” At the 2025 Seed Congress in Sanya, Hainan Province, over 40 exhibitors showcased AI-driven technologies, including genomic analysis and cloud-based farm monitoring systems, highlighting the transition from theoretical research to practical applications.
Smart breeding transforms traditional methods into precision agriculture, addressing seed resource bottlenecks and enhancing self-reliance in the seed industry. Li Jiayang, an academician at the Chinese Academy of Sciences, introduced the concept of “intelligent creation of intelligent varieties,” underscoring the potential of integrating AI, biotechnology, and information technology to develop crops that adapt autonomously to environmental challenges.
Beyond boosting yields, these innovations mark a strategic pivot for China, from being a major food consumer to becoming a global innovator in agritech. As climate pressures increase and global food systems face disruption, China’s focus on AI-powered agriculture positions is for a broader vision — a future leader in sustainable, tech-driven farming solutions worldwide.
