Jiayi Overseas Chinese Farm in Yanshan County, Wenshan
History and Background
Jia Yi Overseas Chinese Farm(文山市砚山县稼依华侨农场) is located in the southwest of Yanshan County, 44 kilometers from the county seat. It is primarily an agricultural farm known for its abundant fruit production. Established in 1955, it began receiving and resettling returned overseas Chinese from India, Indonesia, and Vietnam between 1963 and 1978, subsequently becoming a state-run farm known as Jia Yi Overseas Chinese Farm. Over the years, it was managed by various provincial entities, including the Provincial Reclamation Bureau, the Central Overseas Chinese Affairs Commission (Provincial Overseas Chinese Office), the Provincial Military District, the Provincial Agricultural Reclamation General Bureau, and the Provincial Overseas Chinese Affairs Office. In March 2001, the farm underwent economic reform, transitioning to a county-owned and managed state agricultural enterprise. In March 2009, the farm underwent further reform and was renamed Jia Yi Overseas Chinese Management Area under the administration of the Yanshan County People’s Government, while retaining its original name.
Community Overview
The management area covers a total area of 3.3 square kilometers, with a permanent population of 1,598, including 400 returned overseas Chinese and 457 family members. The residents are spread across three townships: Jiayi, Panlong, and Jiangna. The management area spans 4,940 acres, with 3,510 acres of arable land, averaging 2.2 acres of arable land per capita. Jia Yi is a typical agricultural region with primary industries including sericulture, fruit, and vegetable cultivation. Its specialty products are Overseas Chinese Pears and kiwis.
Economic Activities and Development
Jia Yi Overseas Chinese Farm is primarily focused on agriculture, leveraging its fertile land and favorable climate. The major industries include:
1. Sericulture (Silk Farming): The farm engages in the cultivation of silkworms, producing high-quality silk.
2. Fruit Cultivation: The farm is well-known for its fruit production, particularly Overseas Chinese Pears and kiwis, which are its specialty products. The favorable climate and fertile soil contribute to the high quality of the fruits produced.
3. Vegetable Cultivation: In addition to fruit, the farm also produces a variety of vegetables, contributing to the local food supply and economy.
Community and Social Development
The farm’s residents, including returned overseas Chinese and their families, live in a dispersed manner across three townships. Despite the geographical spread, the community maintains a cohesive social structure, with a strong emphasis on agricultural productivity and economic self-sufficiency.
Economic Reform and Management: In 2001, the farm underwent economic reform to become a county-owned state agricultural enterprise, allowing for more localized management and development. The 2009 reform further integrated the farm into the county administration while preserving its identity as Jia Yi Overseas Chinese Farm.
Land and Resource Management: With 4,940 acres of land, including 3,510 acres of arable land, the farm maximizes its agricultural output through efficient land management and modern farming techniques. The average of 2.2 acres of arable land per person allows for substantial individual contributions to the farm’s overall productivity.
Conclusion
Jia Yi Overseas Chinese Farm, with its rich history and strong agricultural focus, plays a vital role in the local economy of Yanshan County. Its diverse production of silk, fruits, and vegetables, along with the specialty of Overseas Chinese Pears and kiwis, showcases the farm’s agricultural prowess. The successful integration of returned overseas Chinese and their families into productive agricultural activities highlights the farm’s social and economic significance in the region.
