In 2026, China set a record summer grain harvest, surpassing 150 million tonnes for the first time
Every grain of wheat that fills the barns is not just a figure in reports, but the result of millions of farmers' relentless labour, stable agricultural policies and confidence in the future. Crossing the 150‑million‑tonne threshold is a symbolic milestone for the world's most populous country. It is not only a guarantee of food security but also a strong foundation for the entire national economy, especially amid global food price volatility.
According to official data released on 10 July by China's National Bureau of Statistics, the summer grain harvest in 2026 reached 150.75 million tonnes, up 1 million tonnes, or 0.7%, year‑on‑year. Summer grain sown areas remained stable at over 26.53 million hectares, down 0.2% from 2025. In particular, wheat acreage exceeded 23 million hectares, a 0.3% decrease year‑on‑year. Grain yield per hectare reached 5,681.6 kg, up 0.8% from the previous year.
Summer grain typically accounts for about a quarter of China's annual grain output, and this record harvest lays a solid foundation for the overall annual balance. The increase in yields resulted from a combination of favourable weather, adoption of high‑yield varieties and modernisation of farming techniques. Despite a slight reduction in sown area, intensive farming and government support for the agricultural sector made it possible to reach an all‑time high. As CCTV+ reports. This milestone strengthens the country's food security and demonstrates the resilience of agriculture to external challenges.
