“苦”药材变“甜”产业

Core Insights - The article highlights the transformation of Tongxin County in Ningxia into a significant producer of traditional Chinese medicinal herbs, particularly silver root and yellow gentian, which has improved local farmers' incomes and created job opportunities [1][2]. Industry Development - Tongxin County has developed 39,000 acres of medicinal herb cultivation, with silver root being the only major production area in China, recognized by the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs [2]. - The county has established a "base + cooperative + farmer + financial institution" model to enhance the medicinal herb industry, turning previously barren land into productive agricultural areas [1][3]. Financial Support - Local banks have introduced specialized credit products for the medicinal herb sector, addressing the financing challenges faced by small and micro enterprises [3]. - As of June this year, financial institutions in Tongxin County have issued 2.56 billion yuan in agricultural loans, with 22.79 million yuan specifically for medicinal herbs [1]. Employment and Income Generation - The cooperative model has significantly improved farmers' livelihoods, with an average annual income increase of 6,000 yuan per household through participation in herb cultivation [4]. - The county expects to harvest medicinal herbs from 7,600 acres this year, generating a total output value of 41.04 million yuan [4].