From March 20 to 23, the China Seed Congress - Nanfan Seed Silicon Valley Forum was held in Sanya, Hainan. This is the biggest seed conference in China, with over 2,000 participants.
At the International Cooperation Forum, Agricultural Counselor Karel van Bommel spoke about advancements in agriculture. Mr. Sjoerd Bijl, a Policy Specialist from Plantum, shared successful examples of collaboration between China and the Netherlands in the seed industry through a video. Additionally, Michael Keller, Secretary-General of the International Seed Federation (ISF), along with representatives from other international organizations, discussed the importance of aligning plant breeding regulations, strengthening intellectual property rights, and ensuring global food security.
Key points from the conference included China's progress in seed technology, particularly in artificial intelligence (AI) and genetically modified (GM) crops, as well as its improvements in protecting intellectual property related to seed breeding.
A major topic was the use of AI in seed breeding, which integrates biotechnology, information technology, big data, and AI to modernize traditional methods. Another significant development is China's rapid adoption of GM crops. Three years ago, GM crops were first approved for food use in China, and now there are 80 approved GM varieties, including 37 types of GM corn, 14 types of GM soybeans, and 70 types of GM insect-resistant cotton. These are all Chinese varieties, as no foreign varieties have been approved. China is using GM crops to increase crop yields and improve food security, and these varieties are now widely planted.
The provinces of Jilin, Liaoning, Inner Mongolia, Hebei, and Shanxi are key areas for growing spring corn and soybeans, producing 80% of the national output, especially varieties that resist cold and drought. In the southwest and southern provinces like Yunnan, Hubei, and Sichuan, GM corn is being tested. Xinjiang Yili and Gansu Zhangye have recently been approved for GM corn seed production, with plans to expand the area to more than 13,333 hectares by 2025. Henan, Shandong, and northern Anhui are testing varieties that resist high temperatures and rust. Within two to three years, China aims to cultivate 15 million hectares of GM crops and is already exporting some varieties to South America and Pakistan.
Nanfan Seed Silicon Valley
China's 2025 No. 1 Document focuses on revitalizing the seed industry by using the "Nanfan Seed Silicon Valley" as a leading agricultural research hub. This area covers 17,867 hectares, with a core zone of 3,533 hectares, and hosts 14 scientific research institutes and 10 agricultural universities.
The Valley combines research and development in breeding, commercial farming, and seed industry finance to create a complete value chain that connects seed production, industry, and the market. The process for introducing germplasm resources has been reduced from 45 days to just 7 days by streamlining customs procedures for cross-border seed breeding materials. As the Valley moves from construction to full operation, it is setting up a seed industry CRO (contract research and development organization) model. This model is supported by over 20 professional service agencies that specialize in areas such as seed R&D, marketing, genetic testing, new variety registration, and international arbitration.
Opportunities in Hainan for the Dutch seed sector
During the China Seed Congress, various opportunities for the Dutch seed sector for collaboration and market expansion in Hainan were identified.
Strategic technological partnerships and breeding innovation: In China, the seed industry is now using AI to assist in breeding. The Dutch seed sector is well-known for its advanced horticultural technologies and innovative breeding methods. Dutch companies have the opportunity to work with Chinese research institutions and local companies on joint research and development projects. By understanding local needs and challenges, and using AI and big data along with Dutch expertise in precision breeding and data analysis, Dutch companies can customize their products and co-develop new resilient crop varieties with China. This collaboration in breeding innovation could lead to the creation of crop varieties that thrive in local conditions and also tackle similar challenges in other regions without extra investment. Introducing these technological solutions to the Chinese market could help the Dutch seed sector maintain a competitive edge both locally and internationally.
Market expansion gateway: Hainan's agricultural landscape offers strategic opportunities for Dutch seed companies to enter this emerging market. By setting up joint ventures, branch offices, or distribution partnerships, Dutch companies can gain easier market access and build trust with Chinese partners. The provincial government's focus on agricultural innovation and its supportive regulatory environment make it an attractive destination for international investment. Additionally, Hainan's status as a Free Trade Island expands market opportunities for Dutch companies throughout Asia.
At the same time, China is enhancing its intellectual property (IP) protection, especially in high-tech areas like seed breeding. The Hainan Free Trade Port Intellectual Property Court provides specialized judicial services for issues like patent infringements and plant variety rights disputes, offering better protection for the technologies and innovations of Dutch seed companies. Furthermore, the Hainan International Arbitration Court (HIAC) offers a platform for resolving international commercial disputes. With expertise in law, trade, finance, and IP, HIAC is well-equipped to handle complex cases involving foreign companies. The Seed Industry Arbitration Center specifically addresses disputes related to IP rights, contractual issues, and unfair competition in the seed industry.
Sustainable agriculture and R&D on special crops: China is increasingly focused on sustainability in agricultural development, particularly in Hainan, where the tropical climate demands seeds that can withstand rising temperatures, humidity, and pests. The Dutch seed industry is known for its sustainable practices and can share these with global partners. Under the Hainan Free Trade Port framework, significant breeding infrastructures and policy incentives have been established, creating opportunities for developing sustainable and climate-resilient crops. Dutch companies have the chance to engage in projects promoting sustainable breeding practices and to co-develop advanced crop varieties that can handle climate challenges, such as drought-tolerant maize and heat- and disease-resistant vegetables. The market for tropical crop varieties is substantial, and this collaboration can enhance Hainan's agricultural sustainability and food security while providing a strategic market for Dutch innovations in high-tech seed breeding.
The 2025 China Seed Congress highlighted opportunities for the Dutch seed sector, including forming strategic technological partnerships, expanding market presence in Hainan, and sharing expertise in sustainable practices and germplasm exchange. However, Dutch companies need to be aware of China's changing regulations and policies, stay flexible, and be ready to adapt quickly to new requirements or shifts in priorities. Ensuring strong intellectual property protection is also crucial due to varying enforcement standards. Additionally, intense competition from local and international players presents further challenges.
Source: Agroberichten Buitenland