Guiyang farmer turns grape-growing into village success story

In Changyong village, Liuchang town, Xifeng county, Guiyang, former truck driver Huang Jie has become a senior agronomist and Guiyang Labor Model, while helping more than 40 local households develop the grape industry.

Over the past decade, he has grown his operation from an initial five mu (0.33 hectares) of grapes to a 32-mu grape farm and a 31-mu specialty fruit farm. In 2026, his grapes have maintained an average yield of around 1,500 kilograms per mu.

Huang's grape farm harvest. [Photo/xifeng.gov.cn]

Starting in 2010, Huang used breaks between long-haul trucking trips to visit vineyards in different parts of China and attend agricultural training courses. In 2016, he sold his truck and returned to his hometown to start farming, putting what he had learned into practice.

By continuously improving the soil, adopting standardized fruit-thinning techniques and using environmentally friendly pest-control methods, he has steadily improved grape quality and expanded his operation. His vineyard now features 11 varieties, including Kyoho and Shine Muscat.

As his business grew, Huang began sharing his knowledge with fellow villagers, teaching them techniques ranging from pruning and field clearing to fertilization and pest and disease control. With his support, more than 40 households in the village now grow grapes on over 200 mu, generating an annual output value of more than 7 million yuan ($1.04 million).

Now, Huang also serves as a specially appointed agricultural technician for Xifeng county's grape industry. He continues to explore green farming methods and new grape varieties, helping improve the quality and efficiency of the grape industry in Changyong village.