China’s Honglian hybrid rice is delivering higher-than-average yields in Pakistan. A joint initiative between China and Pakistan has expanded trials and training to strengthen food security and agricultural cooperation. CGTN’s Danial Khan reports from Lahore. 

China’s Honglian hybrid rice is showing strong results in Pakistan, with field trials producing yields well above local varieties. Three strains, H13, H14, and H15 have recorded yields ranging from 10.8 to 12.3 tons per hectare. Researchers say H14 stands out for its larger panicles and higher grain count, increasing output by more than 12 percent compared with commonly grown local rice. The trials are part of a collaborative project between Wuhan University and the University of Punjab, first introduced in Pakistan in 2018. The partnership later led to the establishment of the China-Pakistan Joint Research Center for Honglian Hybrid Rice, aimed at improving crop productivity and resilience. At Punjab University, students involved in plant breeding say the project is addressing long-term food needs.

AMNA, Punjab University Student, Plant Breeding and Genetics “It has a high yield which will fulfill all the nutritional requirements and feed requirements in the coming years for the rising population of both China and Pakistan.”

The collaboration is also opening new academic pathways for young researchers, particularly in advanced agricultural sciences.

MARIAM NADEEM, Punjab University Student, Plant Breeding and Genetics “In the agriculture field we can see that the students are going to China for their studies, so this collaboration will be more beneficial.”

Researchers say one of the key strengths of Honglian hybrid rice is its ability to perform under extreme conditions.

PROF. DR. MUHAMMAD ASHFAQ, Chairman, Department of Plant Breeding and Genetics, Punjab University “The key characteristics of this rice are, it is high yielding, its production is very good, it is disease resistant, it has immunity against diseases, which is dangerous for insects. It can be produced at high temperature and the crop stays stable, uniform, and doesn’t decline. Its production per acre is three times more than our local varieties.”

The project also incorporates modern technologies such as artificial intelligence, big data, and remote sensing to improve seed production and crop management. Over the past five years, researchers have established demonstration and experimental bases and conducted multiple training programs for farmers and technicians. Beyond Pakistan’s borders, experts say the initiative reflects a broader vision for global food security under international cooperation frameworks.

DR. MUHAMMAD ALI KLASRA, Department of Entomology, University of Punjab “I remember visiting Wuhan University when President Xi Jinping spoke there. He said this high-yield rice should reach Africa through the Belt and Road, and he specifically mentioned Pakistan. It made us proud, because he was thinking beyond China, about humanity as a whole.”

In June 2025, one Honglian hybrid rice variety received official registration from Pakistan’s agricultural authorities, clearing the way for wider adoption and commercial cultivation.

DANIAL KHAN, Lahore “This initiative goes beyond boosting Pakistan’s domestic food security. It also lays the groundwork for long-term China-Pakistan cooperation in agricultural science and technology, helping safeguard shared food needs while deepening strategic ties between the two countries. Danial Khan, CGTN, Lahore.”

Published Date: February 4, 2026