Government to boost seed industry

China has vowed to boost its seed industry over the next decade to ensure grain stocks grow, amid fears that limited arable land and water may become constraints for agricultural production.

The five main staples - rice, wheat, corn, soybean and potato - and 15 varieties of cash crop have been listed as important fields for cultivating new varieties by 2020, according to a development plan by the General Office of the State Council.

Production bases for staple seeds will be established in northwestern and southwestern regions, as well as Hainan province, by 2015, the plan says.