Group 1 - The fourth Modern Agricultural Development Forum was held in Yichang, Hubei, focusing on "biological innovation, biological manufacturing, and green development" [1] - The forum emphasized the importance of biological manufacturing as a strategic area for future competition and its role in enhancing agricultural quality and ensuring food security [1][2] - The integration of biotechnology and modern agriculture is seen as crucial for achieving high-quality agricultural development during the 14th Five-Year Plan [2] Group 2 - The core of new agricultural productivity is driven by technological innovation, which includes advancements in biological innovation and smart equipment [2] - The chemical industry plays a vital role in supporting modern agriculture through innovations in green pesticides, efficient fertilizers, and biological agents [2][3] - The forum featured presentations from several academicians and industry leaders, highlighting advancements in biological agriculture and green pest control technologies [3]

Core Insights - Micro Yuan Synthetic Allulose (also known as fig sugar) has officially received administrative approval from the National Health Commission as a new food ingredient, making it the first company in China to produce and market allulose through a biological fermentation process [1][2] - The innovative AS10 strain fermentation method has increased conversion efficiency to 80%, significantly reducing production costs by 50% [3][4] - The approval of this production method is tied to the company's patented technology, preventing unapproved companies from legally selling allulose in China [1][2] Company Developments - Micro Yuan Synthetic has launched its first phase of allulose production in Qinhuangdao, with a second phase set to begin in 2027 [4] - The company is collaborating with traditional biological manufacturing partners across North China, Northeast China, and Northwest China to upgrade multiple production lines, aiming to become the world's largest supplier of allulose [4] - The company’s allulose product is now compliant for sale in various regions, including Asia-Pacific and North America, potentially reaching a population of around 2 billion [4] Industry Context - Allulose is viewed as a promising natural sweetener that can meet consumer demand for sweetness without the metabolic burden associated with traditional sugars, particularly in the context of rising obesity and diabetes rates [2][3] - The global market for biological manufacturing is expanding, with China holding the largest production capacity, particularly in the starch sugar industry, which is currently underperforming due to high production costs and low profitability [3][4] - The synthetic biology sector is gaining traction, with applications spanning biomedicine, food nutrition, and environmental sustainability, supported by favorable policies from local governments [5][6]