The Ministry of Agriculture says total grain output is expected to reach an all-time high this year, barring any major natural disasters.

2008 is set to be the fifth straight year of increase since the start of reform and opening-up in the country. This will lay a solid foundation for steady, and rapid economic development, as well as head off excessive price rises.

China has adopted a series of incentives to encourage farmers to push up grain production.

While agricultural departments have also promoted scientific measures and moved quickly to minimize losses caused by a series of natural disasters, and instability in the global economy.

(CCTV September 22, 2008)