In the heart of China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, a revolution in tomato farming is taking root, showcasing the future of smart agriculture. Known as the "Golden Land" for its ideal tomato-growing conditions, Xinjiang boasts over 80% of China's tomato planting area, with Manasi County leading the charge in the production of processed tomatoes. This region's unique climate, characterized by abundant sunshine and significant temperature variations between day and night, enhances the lycopene content and enriches the soil with selenium, making for a particularly fertile ground that yields an impressive 120 tons of tomatoes per hectare.
The advent of smart technology in agriculture has transformed traditional farming practices in Manasi County, where the introduction of intelligent equipment has streamlined the harvesting process. Machines now have the capability to selectively harvest, filtering out low-quality tomatoes and efficiently gathering up to 600 tons of top-grade produce daily. This mechanized approach not only maximizes yield but also ensures the tomatoes are promptly processed into paste and other products, preserving their high quality and nutritional value.
Spanning 14 thousand hectares, the vast fields of Manasi County are a testament to the area's dominance in the processed tomato industry, contributing significantly to the local economy with an estimated output value exceeding 350 million US dollars this year alone. The shift towards contract agriculture has further stabilized the industry, allowing farmers to mitigate the risks associated with price fluctuations. By securing agreements with tomato paste companies, farmers are guaranteed a market for their crops, while also receiving crucial technical support to optimize both quality and efficiency.
This holistic approach to tomato farming, blending traditional expertise with cutting-edge technology and innovative business models, not only underscores Xinjiang's pivotal role in the global tomato industry but also highlights the potential for smart agriculture to sustainably elevate economic wellbeing in rural communities.
Source: CGTN