Construction Of Agricultural Science And Technology Zone And Its Role On The Development Of Urban Agriculture In China

Agricultural Science and Technology Zone (ASTZ) is an effective channel for developing urban agriculture which is the result of strategic planning of modern agricultural development in China. It is strategically important to study the construction of the ASTZ and its roles in developing the urban agriculture. This study has particularly important implications on policy making in balancing the rural and urban economic development in the new era of China's modernization.In summarizing the research in the areas of construction of ASTZ and urban agriculture in both China and other countries, the author has defined the meaning, characteristics and functions of ASTZ and urban agriculture, demonstrated the carrier role of ASTZ in developing urban agriculture in China, stated the current situation of the construction of ASTZ in China. To take the development of ASTZ in Shijiazhuang as an example,the author clearly analyzed the problems that face the current practices in the construction of ASTZ: Lack of clear guidance, the right positioning of the development stratify and the strong technological supporting system and operation mechanism .departing from the market economy are among the major obstacles in the process of development. It is proposed that a clear understanding of the urban environment is vital to formulating the strategy of urban agricultural development. Strategic planning and the positioning of the ASTZ are important; effective business management, good human resource , incentive programs , attractive environment and overall planning are all part of successful formulation in developing ASTZ in China.