In 2024, Guiyang, capital of Southwest China's Guizhou province, made significant strides in building livable and thriving rural communities.
Guiyang strengthened five key industries – planting, breeding, processing, distribution, and agritourism – enhancing modern, high-efficiency urban agriculture to boost rural income. Major projects were launched and rural incomes rose by 7 percent, with over 80 percent of villages achieving an annual business income of 200,000 yuan ($27,617).
Establishing key research institutions and conducting training programs benefitted over 15,000 rural professionals. The city also encouraged talent return through entrepreneurship incentives.
The city attracted institutions such as the Yazhou Bay National Laboratory and academic agricultural innovation teams. It provided vocational training for 5,606 rural workers, trained 10,196 practical rural talents, certified 336 rural artisans, and issued 136 rural industry talent development cards. Additionally, 175 senior agricultural technicians and 200 mid-level agricultural technicians were recognized.
Environmental initiatives included new rural construction regulations, completion of 27 environmental projects, and full coverage of rural public toilets. Wastewater treatment reached 80 percent, and rural tourism flourished, attracting 180,000 visits. With 50 model villages recognized, Guiyang is setting a benchmark for rural vitalization.