In the heart of Xinjiang, an agricultural revolution is underway amid the region’s arid landscapes of desert and saline soil. I recently had the opportunity to visit several agricultural parks and demonstration bases operated by the Xinjiang Production and Construction Corps. It was remarkable to witness how cutting-edge technologies—ranging from drones and robots to smart greenhouses and digital management systems—are revolutionizing farming practices. These advanced methods not only enhance crop yields but also reduce energy consumption, positioning China as a leader in agricultural innovation while providing farmers with more stable incomes, moving away from the traditional reliance on nature.
One standout experience was at Fangcao Lake Farm, where I encountered an expansive cotton field stretching over 1,000 acres. Cao Senlin, a member of the farm’s party committee, shared insights about their harvest expectations. “As we approach harvest time, we’re targeting an average yield of around 500 kg of cotton per acre, generating profits of about 1,500 yuan per acre.” The farm’s fields, notably devoid of manual labor, reflect a strong commitment to mechanization, with only the topping—removing the cotton plant’s leaf buds—still done by hand. “We are now pushing for mechanical topping, which will fully automate cotton cultivation,” he explained.
Technology’s impact in agriculture extends beyond just efficiency gains. At the Xinjiang Tianye Group’s Mushroom Lake Modern Agricultural Demonstration Base in Shihezi City, I learned about various innovative technologies that exemplify how science supports agriculture. Ma Zhandong, a senior engineer and general manager at Xinjiang Tianye Smart Agriculture Technology Co., elaborated on their advancements. “Our self-developed drip irrigation system for saline-alkali soil has achieved average yields of around 320 kg per acre, surpassing even some fertile regions. After two decades of innovation, we’ve significantly cut down on energy use in agricultural irrigation, aligning our practices with sustainable development goals.”
Additionally, the company is investigating cutting-edge underground drainage techniques combined with integrated water and fertilizer application methods, which could boost crop yields by 30%. They’ve even devised a way to use industrial CO2 to improve the quality of saline-alkali soil.
During my visit, a drone soared above the fields, scanning approximately 5,000 acres of cotton with remote sensing technology. Nearby, an assortment of smart agricultural devices—including groundwater monitoring systems, insect tracking lights, and weather stations—was collecting data displayed on a central screen for real-time decision-making.
The tangible benefits of these technological innovations are striking. “Check out these test plots,” Ma pointed out, highlighting the contrast between two cotton fields. “In the same area, one plant produces ten bolls while the other yields just five or six. The differences between treated and untreated saline-alkali land using advanced techniques are evident.”
I also toured the Tianfu photovoltaic base, home to a 400,000-kilowatt solar plant on the edge of the Gurbantünggüt Desert, where previously unproductive land is being revitalized. With a unique offer of waiving rent for three years, management encourages local farmers to cultivate cash crops beneath the solar panels. Guo Wei, who previously sold traditional Chinese medicinal herbs, is now trialing 32 acres of mugwort, achieving steady profits and planning to expand his efforts next year.
Yan Lei, the director at the Tianfu Energy Group’s control center, spoke to the ongoing exploration of integrated agriculture and solar energy models, aiming to enhance local economies and promote environmental sustainability.
At the RunTai Smart Agriculture Industrial Park in Keke dryla, I observed how their modern glass greenhouse, home to “cherry-like” tomatoes, is creating jobs and boosting incomes for local communities. Executive Director Tang Yue proudly detailed their success: “This year, we’ve harvested over 600 tons, with expected sales nearing 24 million yuan.”
The park not only cultivates cherry tomatoes but also a variety of fruits, providing job opportunities with a small team of fewer than 20 running operations while supporting over a hundred workers from diverse ethnic backgrounds. Employees shared their uplifting stories of improved livelihoods, including one former supermarket worker who now earns double her previous salary.
The agricultural landscape in Xinjiang is being reshaped through a harmonious blend of innovation, technology, and commitment, promising not just increased crop production but also enhanced opportunities for growth and sustainability within local communities.
