The rural economy was seriously affected by SARS and natural disasters in 2003. However, thanks to improved policy environment and favorable agricultural market situation both at home and abroad, the rural economy was in a stable operation in the whole year.

Amid the rapid urbanization process, the huge migrant population - consisting mainly of rural laborers - faces restrictions as migrants are unable to obtain permanent residence status in cities and are not entitled to basic public services.

The growth of global trade has slowed since the outbreak of the global financial crisis in 2008. The changing global trade structure significantly influences China's trade.

The agricultural production of industrialized nations shows that once a country can be classified as middle-income, the growth in its agricultural production fluctuates.