China has quietly taken over America’s food supply

 China has increasingly gained control over the food supply in the United States, significantly impacting American agriculture. This shift poses strategic vulnerabilities as China expands its influence through acquisitions of key agricultural companies.

1. Urgency of the Issue:

The America First Policy Institute’s report indicates that America's agricultural sector, once seen as secure, is now an important battleground in the U. S.-China rivalry. The reality of food security is highlighted, showing that food is a vital component of power in global competition.

2. China’s Strategic Acquisitions:

• Over the last decade, China has quietly acquired significant portions of the U. S. food production system through state-owned enterprises like WH Group and SinoChem.

• A notable case is Smithfield Foods, purchased by WH Group in 2013, which allowed China to control large-scale pork processing in the U. S. Despite some objections, the Obama administration approved the acquisition, leading to China's increased influence over American pork prices and production.

3. Impact on the U. S. Food System:

The acquisition of Smithfield has enabled China to profit from American agriculture while influencing market prices. Even during supply shortages like those seen during the pandemic, Smithfield continued exporting to China, showcasing the power it holds.

4. Concern over Agricultural Inputs:

ChemChina's acquisition of Syngenta in 2017 further illustrates China’s reach, as the company is connected to forced labor practices in Xinjiang. American farmers, believing they are acquiring crop-enhancing products, are indirectly contributing to a system that supports oppression in China.

5. Data Security Threats:

Modern agricultural practices rely heavily on data collection through advanced technologies. Companies like Syngenta gather critical agricultural data that, under China’s National Intelligence Law, can be accessed by the Chinese government. This creates a situation where the U. S. could be inadvertently providing intelligence on its own agricultural systems to a rival power.

6. Policy Recommendations:

The article urges U. S. policymakers to take action by preventing foreign adversaries from owning American farmland and strategic agricultural assets. It suggests that recognizing the seriousness of the issue can lead to protective measures to safeguard American agriculture.

China's expanding control over America's food supply presents a significant strategic risk to the U. S. The gradual acquisition of agricultural assets and data poses a challenge that requires urgent attention and action from policymakers to protect national interests and ensure food security. 

https://thespectator.com/topic/china-quietly-taken-over-america-food-supply/