China will invest 20 billion yuan (€2. 5 billion) in a number of key science and technology research and development projects, including food-related projects, within the next three to five years, the Ministry of Science and Technology announced.
The projects are expected to help China "rapidly command a host of cutting-edge technologies in the 21st century, make significant technological breakthroughs and get them industrialised in three to five years," according to ministry sources.
The food related projects will involve dairy development and water-saving agriculture.
According to experts, projects such as the "in-depth processing of major agricultural products" and "food safety" are decided to clear hindrances to sustainable development of the national economy and society, facilitate the strategic industrial restructuring, raise farmers' income and safeguard public health and security.