Soybean Research for Wide Regional Adaptability and Sustainable Agriculture

Led by Professor Hon-Ming Lam of The Chinese University of Hong Kong and Professor Dawei Xin of Northeast Agricultural University, this five-year research project aims to bolster China's soybean self-sufficiency. The initiative focuses on developing new soybean cultivars specifically adapted to the hot, humid climate of southern China, with enhanced resilience to environmental stresses and superior nutritional quality.

By leveraging advanced genomics and molecular technologies, the research will identify key genetic variations—particularly those affecting photoperiod sensitivity—and apply marker-assisted breeding to accelerate cultivar development. A core component of the project is the creation of a novel methodology to quantify the environmental benefits of soybean production, including carbon sequestration through sustainable agricultural practices.

To align with the nation’s long-term development goals, efforts are directed toward increasing China’s domestic soybean self-sufficiency rate to 30%  by 2032, promoting sustainable farming, and providing economic benefits to farmers through improved yields and potential carbon credits.