THE First Corn New Farmers’ Gathering and the Shenzhen subvenue of the 24th Guangdong Seed Industry Expo were recently held in Longtian Subdistrict, Pingshan.

Leveraging a contiguous tract of more than 180 hectares of permanent basic farmland in Longtian, Pingshan is expanding urban farmland’s roles in securing grain supply, providing ecological protection, offering recreation, and delivering educational experiences.

The events emphasized smart farming technologies, industry-university-research collaboration, seed industry partnerships, and urban agritourism. Agricultural experts, scholars, enterprise representatives, and industry practitioners gathered to explore the development and potential of modern urban agriculture.

Technologies on display ranged from breeding R&D and industrialized production to precision field management, injecting fresh momentum into Shenzhen’s agricultural modernization.

The Shenzhen Agricultural Product Quality Safety Inspection and Testing Center’s Experimental Demonstration Base signed a strategic partnership agreement with Shenzhen Technology University. They also jointly inaugurated the Lingnan Medicinal Botanic Garden and established a student practice base to collaborate on research and field projects.

The Industry and Information Technology Bureau of Pingshan District signed a cooperation agreement with Shenzhen Fruit and Vegetable Trading Co. to promote the industrial development and efficient use of basic farmland.

Under a pairing-support program, Pingshan is donating high-quality seedlings and cultivation materials to partner areas such as Luhe County in Shanwei and Longtian Township in Shantou. By supplying superior seeds and agronomic methods, the initiative aims to extend Shenzhen’s advances in seed industry innovation and smart agriculture to these regions.

Corn varieties, specialty agricultural products, and high-tech crops were displayed during the event. These farm-to-table activities not only showcased quality produce but also boosted local brands. Interactive activities engaged visitors of all ages.

Advanced equipment such as seedling greenhouses, integrated fertigation systems, and crop-protection drones drew wide interest. Many visitors tried VR goggles to experience simulated high-precision genetic transformation experiments on corn.

Through soil samples, fertilizer exhibits, and interactive Q&A sessions, agricultural technicians explained fertilization, pesticide use, and green pest control for crops. (Cao Zhen)