Chongqing - The inaugural technology achievement auction at Western (Chongqing) Science City, hosted by the Chongqing Academy of Agricultural Sciences, sold 14 agricultural innovations, including staple and cash crops and agricultural machinery. The auction raised 5.735 million yuan (USD 782,443.79), with a 26.88% premium rate.

The event, designed to promote the commercialization of agricultural technological innovations and upgrade the agricultural industry, marked a significant step for Chongqing in turning scientific research into marketable results.

The auction's highlight was the "Yutiannuo 990" corn variety, developed by the Chongqing Academy of Agricultural Sciences. After intense bidding, Chongqing Keguang Seed Co., Ltd. won the rights for 1.35 million yuan, the highest bid.

"Yutiannuo 990" – delicious sweet and sticky corn. (Photo/Chongqing Keguang Seed Co., Ltd.)

In an exclusive interview with Bridging News on January 6, Ke Jianhong, Deputy Director of the Institute of Maize and Specialty Crops, Chongqing Academy of Agricultural Sciences, provided insights into the practical applications and future potential of the "Yutiannuo 990" corn variety. 

As an excellent representative of the sweet-sticky fresh corn variety, "Yutiannuo 990" is especially suitable for Chongqing's climate and soil conditions and the broader Southwest China region. 

"The 'Yutiannuo 990' variety has passed national and regional trials and is well-suited for cultivation in the hilly, plain, and low mountain areas of Southwest China, including Sichuan, Chongqing, Guizhou, Hunan, Hubei, and central Yunnan," Ke highlighted. 

He continued, "Its strong adaptability to local climatic and agricultural conditions makes it a high-potential crop for local farmers."

The variety can be steamed for direct consumption or processed into products like corn kernels, juice, and cakes, expanding market options.

By commercializing technological achievements, the auction not only accelerated the translation of scientific research into practical applications but also provided new sources of income for farmers.z

Ke noted, "The successful promotion of 'Yutiannuo 990' will help adjust the agricultural industry structure, enhance productivity, and inject new vitality into rural revitalization."

The "Yutiannuo 990" corn boasts a high germination rate. (Photo/Chongqing Keguang Seed Co., Ltd.)

The key advantages of "Yutiannuo 990" are its high yield and excellent quality. During cultivation, the average yield can reach up to 1,053 kilograms per mu of fresh corn ears. This equates to a per-acre income exceeding 3,000 yuan at current market prices. 

Additionally, the stalks left after harvesting remain green. They are an excellent silage source for livestock such as cattle and sheep. This enables integrated farming, which further enhances farmers' revenue streams.

"The promotion of this variety not only boosts agricultural productivity but also enhances the stability and security of food supply, which is becoming increasingly important in the context of global food security concerns," Ke emphasized.