A land of promise must learn to grow without China's aid

Mozambique's coastline stretches almost 2,000 kilometers. It suffers from a poor traffic system so it always takes some time for people in the north to travel to Maputo in the south.

"We are organizing more than 10 training activities every year. Agricultural officials, technicians and farmers are all our students," said Liu.

However, the practice of aiding ideas costs a lot. Therefore, Liu is figuring out a way of balancing public welfare and the benefits of the center.

The center has introduced several Chinese companies to the country. They are taking the center as a platform to create new businesses.

"These companies use the center's seeds, techniques and technology, which are based on our research in Mozambique," said Liu.

Xiangyang Wanbao Grains & Oils Co was attracted and plans to invest $95 million in Mozambique to construct a 666.7 hectares modern food production and processing base. Currently, Wanbao has successfully invested 90 million yuan and grown 66.3 hectares of rice in Saisai city, Gazza province.

In terms of commercial crops, the center is working with Liaoning-based Wellhope Agri-Tech Co Ltd, and is planning to focus on cotton growing and sugar cane plants.

"We hope to further drive the development of grain, vegetable growing, livestock, and agricultural products processing base as well as training," said Liu.

"We cannot depend on the Chinese government's help forever and must promote agricultural marketing," added Liu.

There is a reason for caution: China's foreign aid projects are becoming a controversial topic in the eyes of Western media, which regards China's behavior as "land grabbing".

"The Mozambique government is asking for our agricultural aid. They are offering us the land, but do not provide any funding support," said Wang Lipei, commercial counselor of the Chinese embassy in Mozambique.

"We are confident about improving the agriculture situation significantly. We have not come across a case in which local people suspect any hostility from us," said Wang.

Whatever anyone thinks, China is putting the grain problem, which is the basic and most urgent need for Mozambique, in the spotlight, said Wang.