The potential of Bambara groundnut: An analysis for the People’s Republic of China

While China has transformed its economy over recent decades, challenges such as climate change and land degradation have continued to impact agriculture. These effects along with changes in diets growing food imports will force look for alternative cropping options. Despite the broad potential of Bambara groundnut (Vigna subterranea L. Verdc) a resilient nutritious underutilized crop, less is known about Asia. Here, we explore become mainstream crop mainland China. A suitability analysis presented examine degree seasonal adaptability this against soil requirements across Results showed that yield areas can be too marginal production other crops soybean (Glycine max). If realized, could contribute China's agriculture reduce reliance on vegetable protein imports. Using an average 0.85 t/ha available area between 55 112 million ha (based 4 availability scenarios) modest price 143 USD/t, yearly income USD 6 13 billion potentially contributed by widespread cultivation crop. As well security, drought-resistant nitrogen-fixing legume also rehabilitation, particularly where shift planting dates noticeable. This study demonstrates need more investment research into adoption transform populous Asian countries.