China's Forestry Industry Booms, Exceeding 10 Trillion Yuan in Value

China's Forestry Industry Flourishes, Exceeding 10 Trillion Yuan in Value

China's forestry industry has achieved remarkable growth, with its total output value surpassing 10 trillion yuan ($1.38 trillion) in 2024. This impressive figure represents a significant 9.6 percent increase compared to the previous year, highlighting the industry's robust performance.

The production of forest foods, such as camellia oil, olive oil, and walnuts, has reached new heights, exceeding 200 million tons annually. This achievement positions forest foods as the third largest agricultural product category in China, following grains and vegetables.

Timber production has also witnessed a notable increase, exceeding 137 million cubic meters, marking an 8 percent rise from 2023. This surge in timber production underscores the industry's growing contribution to the national economy.

Collective forest ownership has played a crucial role in empowering farmers, creating employment opportunities for over 47 million individuals. The average output per mu (4,500 yuan per hectare) has more than tripled compared to the pre-reform period, demonstrating the positive impact of collective forest management.

China's commitment to environmental sustainability is evident in its land greening efforts, which exceeded 100 million mu (6.67 million hectares) in 2024. This initiative has significantly enhanced the country's green cover, contributing to a healthier and more sustainable environment.

The comprehensive vegetation coverage of national grasslands has remained stable at over 50 percent, indicating a balance between utilization and conservation. This achievement underscores China's dedication to maintaining the ecological integrity of its grasslands.