China’s Acquisition of U.S. Farmland Raises Concerns over National Security
China’s increasing acquisition of U.S. farmland has raised concerns over national security, as Chinese entities quickly gain control of key assets near critical military and intelligence sites. The Department of Agriculture reports that Chinese ownership of U.S. farmland has skyrocketed from $81 million in 2010 to a staggering $1.9 billion in 2021. With much of this land located in close proximity to sensitive military installations, the implications for espionage and potential economic leverage by China are alarming.
The Wall Street Journal recently exposed the worrisome trend of Chinese nationals accessing U.S. military bases, with as many as 100 incidents being documented. Even resorting to unconventional methods such as scuba diving, these individuals have demonstrated their intent to gain proximity to sensitive military technology. This highlights why owning land in close proximity to critical military sites holds significant value for Chinese officials.
Beyond the immediate espionage concerns, China has a long history of targeting vital industries for retaliation and using economic leverage to punish political opponents, as seen in various countries such as Norway, Lithuania, South Korea, Taiwan, the Philippines, and Australia. By controlling national assets, particularly those related to food security, China could wield significant economic power and pose a threat during times of conflict.
Recognizing the severity of this issue, lawmakers in 33 U.S. states have introduced 81 bills this year aimed at prohibiting Chinese government entities, China-based businesses, and Chinese citizens from purchasing agricultural land or property near military bases. These efforts by state leaders reflect a growing awareness of the need to protect national interests.
However, there are concerns that Chinese investors will exploit legal loopholes to bypass new restrictions. Recent events in Texas highlight the urgency of national action. As legislation to restrict the sale of Texas farmland gains traction, Chinese investors are finding alternative means of acquiring land. The purchase of Fairfield Lake State Park, located between Dallas, Austin, and Houston, raised alarm bells due to the lack of transparency surrounding the deal. Public buyer Todd Interests received $92 million from CMB Infrastructure Investment Group, a regional center involved in the EB-5 visa program, which allows foreigners to invest in return for green cards.
It is crucial to address such loopholes at a federal level. Reforms should focus on enhancing transparency in the EB-5 visa program, which has been susceptible to abuse, particularly by Chinese citizens. Additionally, there should be increased scrutiny of Chinese land purchases, as the current interagency committee responsible for regulating foreign investment lacks the authority to review real estate transactions.
Considering the Department of Agriculture’s role in overseeing America’s agricultural land, it should have a prominent seat at the table. China’s actions necessitate a comprehensive and coordinated approach to safeguarding national security and protecting vital assets.
China’s relentless pursuit of vulnerabilities and its ability to exploit them for strategic gain present a clear challenge to U.S. national security. The acquisition of land, especially near critical military sites, has far-reaching implications. As Chinese influence expands, it becomes evident that safeguarding national interests and maintaining security requires adaptability and a proactive response.
In the spirit of Sun Tzu’s insights, the United States must heed the warning signs and take the necessary steps to protect its strength, security, and prosperity. By addressing legal loopholes, enhancing transparency, and implementing comprehensive reforms, the U.S. can ensure that China’s aggressive tactics do not compromise its national security. The time for meaningful action has come, and it is crucial to act decisively and swiftly.
