In an exclusive interview with CRI, China's State Administration of Grain official Liu Dongzhu said the country has abundant food in stock, and that it is fully capable of achieving food self-sufficiency. Our reporter Wu Peng has the details.

Reporter:

Food crisis has been plaguing the world recently due to human conflicts and natural disasters. Statistics show that the current global food stock is at 310 million tons, the lowest in 30 years. This accounts for less than 5 percent of the food consumed worldwide last year, while the world-recognized safety standard is between 17 to 18 percent.

Liu Dongzhu said that despite the pressure from global food price hikes, China has abundant food supply.

"China has seen a food-production increase for four consecutive years. Supply and demand have been balanced, stocks of food have increased, and food supply is sufficient. The rise of food prices is moderate and structural. And the level of our food stock is much higher than the 17 to 18 percent safety standard set by the U.N. Food and Agriculture Organization."

After the country suffered from food shortage in 2004, the Chinese government has taken a series of measures to support the development of agriculture and food production . In 2007, food production volume hit over 500 million tons, significantly improving the balance between supply and demand. To date, China has nearly 200 million tons in its food stocks.

The central government will invest 20 billion Yuan, or some 2.8 billion US dollars, to further develop its agriculture this year. The money will mainly be used to strengthen agricultural infrastructure, improve irrigation systems and increase subsidies for farmers.

Liu Donghzhu added that China is completely able to be self-sufficient in food supply.

"China has always adhered to the principle on the food issue, which is to rely on domestic resources and achieve self-sufficiency in food. In recent years, China's food consumption and production are pretty balanced."

Liu Dongzhu said total food output in 2008 is expected to remain at 500 million tons.

A number of experts have predicted that China's food production will see an increase for five consecutive years for the first time in 30 years if the weather conditions stay normal in 2008.

Wu Peng, CRI news