In a remarkable demonstration of rural revitalization through digital innovation, Heilongjiang’s Shangguandi village has undergone a transformative journey from economic struggle to prosperous e-commerce success. Under the leadership of Chen Yujia, a former physical education teacher turned national legislator and village Party secretary, this agricultural community has embraced technological solutions to overcome traditional market limitations.
Chen’s strategic vision began with recognizing the untapped potential of their premium ‘slate rice’ cultivated in volcanic soil. Despite producing high-quality grains, villagers historically faced profitability challenges due to conventional sales approaches. After abandoning her teaching career in 2016, Chen implemented a multi-faceted approach combining organic farming practices with digital market integration.
The transformation involved introducing green agricultural methodologies including manual transplanting techniques, soil-specific fertilization protocols, and biological pest control using field ducks and specialized lamps. This ecological approach enhanced product quality while establishing unique selling propositions for market differentiation.
Chen’s most significant innovation emerged through e-commerce integration. She mobilized young villagers to form dedicated livestreaming teams that virtually transported consumers to their fields, showcasing the authentic production process and farming environment. This transparent marketing approach built consumer trust and expanded market reach nationally.
Further innovation came through the 2020 introduction of a ‘landlord planting’ model where urban consumers could adopt rice plots and receive harvest outputs while optionally participating in farming experiences. This agritourism integration created additional revenue streams and deepened consumer engagement.
The results have been substantial: organic rice cultivation expanded from 3.33 to 120 hectares, creating employment for over 500 local farmers. The village transformed from economic deficit to becoming a regional model for rural development, attracting returning youth and stimulating comprehensive growth.
As a National People’s Congress deputy, Chen has systematically advocated for rural digitalization policies, including enhanced e-commerce training, improved logistics infrastructure, and agricultural technology applications. Her upcoming legislative proposals focus on establishing standardized regulations for rural tourism and homestay management to ensure sustainable development.
This case exemplifies how digital transformation, when combined with traditional agricultural wisdom and community mobilization, can effectively address rural development challenges while preserving cultural heritage and environmental sustainability.