During the 14th Five-Year Plan period (2021–25), Jinan has made big strides in rural vitalization and the modernization of its agricultural and rural sectors.

In 2024, Jinan's total grain output surpassed 3.05 million metric tons, marking six consecutive years of growth. The total output value of agriculture, forestry, animal husbandry, and fishery reached 81.4 billion yuan ($11.6 billion), and the per capita disposable income of rural residents increased to 27,182 yuan.

So far, the city has developed over 1.18 million mu (78,706 hectares) of high-standard farmland and established 385 large-scale vegetable bases, 1,079 livestock and poultry farms, and 37 aquaculture farms, ensuring a stable agricultural product supply.

Jinan has adopted a zonal, category-based approach to systematically advancing rural vitalization, promoting 85 rural vitalization zones at the provincial, municipal, and county levels. Notable examples include a zone in Laiwu district, leveraging the scenic Xueye Lake to develop cultural tourism. The city has also established 410 provincial-level beautiful and harmonious villages and 249 model villages for rural vitalization.

Industry development has become a key driver. In Pingyin county, roses have been developed into a product system with over 140 items across eight categories. Traditional local specialties, including Zhangqiu scallion, Laiwu ginger, and Shanghe flower, continue to flourish, while new brands like Changqing koi, Gangcheng pear, and Guide goat milk have emerged. Jinan now has 52 nationally recognized quality agricultural products and 77 provincial-level agricultural brands.

Digital technology has further facilitated rural vitalization, enabling smart management of agricultural resources. The city has established the "Quannongtong" digital platform for agriculture and set up 103 smart agriculture bases.

To improve rural livelihoods, Jinan encourages villages to develop distinctive industries with tailored policies while channeling talent and enterprise resources to rural areas. A total of 459 village cooperation projects have been implemented, while 1,687 enterprises provide support to villages.

An aerial view of golden rice fields in Jinan. [Photo/VCG]