Township in Xinjiang trials sugarcane cultivation in Taklimakan Desert

"We are taking a demonstration-first approach based on local soil and climate conditions," said Mahmut Abdilim, deputy head of the township. "After this year's harvest, we will review our experience and refine the technical process, then gradually guide more residents to join in large-scale planting."

The trial has expanded from a few dozen plants to 0.4 hectares. Local officials say it has challenged the conventional wisdom that southern crops cannot thrive in the north and opened a new path for agricultural transformation in southern Xinjiang villages.

Zhang Mingzhong, a local grower, said he planted a few dozen sugarcane plants last year on an experimental basis and was surprised by how sweet they turned out. "This year I expanded to 0.4 hectares. With technicians teaching us in the field every day, we feel much more confident."