(ECNS) -- China's grain output in 2023 hit 695 billion kilograms, an increase of 8.88 billion kilograms compared to the previous year, setting a new historical record, according to an official at a news briefing Tuesday.

The output maintained above 0.65 trillion kilograms for the ninth consecutive year, said Deng Xiaogang, deputy Minister of Agriculture and Rural Affairs.

The expansion of soybean cultivation has also shown significant results, with output reaching a record 20.84 billion kilograms.

Deng said the achievements should be attributed to science and technology advancement, equipment support, and the accelerated pace of green agricultural development.

Harvesters reap wheat in Nanyukou village of Handan City, Hebei province. (File photo/China News Service)