(ECNS) — Modern technology is transforming agriculture in rural areas in Lhasa, Xizang Autonomous Region.

"We used to believe growing diverse vegetables and fruits here was impossible, but modern technology has proven otherwise," said a staff member at the Caina National Modern Agricultural Demonstration Zone in Qushui County, Lhasa, on Wednesday.

Photo taken on July 23, 2025 shows grapes independently cultivated by the Caina National Modern Agricultural Demonstration Zone in Qushui County, Lhasa, Xizang Autonomous Region. (Photo: China News Network/Zhang Dongfang)

Located in Caina Town, about 30 kilometers from downtown Lhasa, the demonstration zone has emerged as a model for rural revitalization, integrating plantation, crop variety research and development, education, and eco-tourism.

Adjacent to Lhasa Gonggar International Airport, the zone benefits from the Lhasa-Xigaze Railway running through its territory. The unique geographical advantages have transformed it into a vital agricultural hub, bridging urban and rural markets while strengthening Xizang's connectivity with other regions.

As a key "vegetable basket" supply base for Lhasa, the zone yields abundant varieties of vegetables and fruits, including turnips, potatoes, tomatoes, among others.

Ahnai, a worker who has worked at the demonstration zone for nearly 10 years, said they have collaborated with multiple scientific institutions in recent years to introduce advanced cultivation techniques and premium crop varieties, with over 100 varieties of crops successfully cultivated, including herbs, vegetables, fruits, and flowers.

Climate-resilient crops were selected and introduced to local farmers free of charge, Ahnai noted. "We also provide technical guidance to help them reduce cultivation risks so as to ensure their income."

He also mentioned that the demonstration zone has created a lot of jobs for local residents. "Those who prefer to stay at their hometown or who can't find jobs can get employed here," he added.

Technological advances have not only enhanced local crop cultivation but also expanded market access for farmers.

According to Pema Gyatso, a strawberry farm worker, in order to ensure fresh produce reaches markets in Lhasa and neighboring cities promptly, the demonstration zone operates its own cold-chain logistics vehicles. Meanwhile, it has proactively embraced technological advancement by leveraging e-commerce platforms like Douyin and collaborating with influencers to promote livestream sales, effectively distributing agricultural products nationwide.

It also hosts fruit-picking experiential activities every year, drawing large numbers of visitors, Gyatso said.

Official statistics show that in 2024 alone, it attracted 150,000 visits, generating tourism revenue of 7.677 million yuan (about 1.07 million U.S. dollars).

Moreover, the demonstration zone is actively attracting cooperative enterprises, with 15 companies currently operating on-site, to further expand nationwide distribution of agricultural products through these partnerships, Gyatso added.

(By Zhang Dongfang)

编辑：呼乐乐