BEIJING, Dec 24 Reuters China on Tuesday launched a decadelong plan to boost consumption of cereal grains and develop the industry through higher production standards, research and international cooperation as part of efforts to enhance food security.

The 20242035 action plan, jointly issued by the National Food and Strategic Reserves Administration and other government departments, also encourages companies and private capital to establish development funds to support the whole grain industry.

By 2035, the people39;s awareness of cereal grains will be significantly improved, the proportion of cereal grains in residents39; dietary consumption will increase significantly, and the level of cereal grain consumption will basically match the level of China39;s economic and social development, it said in a notice to various government agencies.

China is the world39;s biggest cereal grain grower, producing 652 million metric tons in 2024. However, it remains reliant on imports of corn, wheat and such to feed its population of 1.4 billion people.

For example, China ships large volumes of higher quality wheat from Canada, Australia and Russia to make pasta and baked goods.

The world39;s largest grains buyer imported 59.08 million tons of cereal grains and flour in 2023. Raising consumption and quality of its domestic produce will cut China39;s demand from the global market.

As part of the plan, China said it would vigorously promote the health benefits of consuming cereal…