The Wealth of Primary Industries as the Foundation of National Power – Emphasizing its Importance and the Neglect in Modern Society

Primary industries, including agriculture, fisheries, and forestry, which directly obtain resources from nature, have historically played an essential role in the survival and prosperity of nations. The production of food and the supply of raw materials are the foundation upon which the lives of citizens and economic activities rest. However, in modern society, the importance of primary industries has been underestimated, with secondary and tertiary industries such as manufacturing and services becoming the economic center. This shift, especially prevalent in developed countries, has led to a situation where primary industries are left to the whims of those on the ground and are often neglected. In this article, we emphasize the importance of primary industries and examine the issues caused by their neglect.

Why the Wealth of Primary Industries Forms the Basis of National Power

The argument that the wealth of primary industries forms the foundation of national power is supported by several factors.

1. Food Self-Sufficiency and National Stability

A stable food supply is essential for the secure lives of citizens. When primary industries, especially agriculture, are well-developed, food self-sufficiency increases, allowing a country to rely less on imports and provide for its population in times of crisis. Food self-sufficiency is directly tied to national security and is a key indicator of national power. However, with the progression of globalization, many countries have become dependent on cheaper imported goods, risking the decline of domestic agriculture.

2. Sustainable Use of Natural Resources

Primary industries are responsible for managing and utilizing natural resources, which are critical for the long-term sustainable development of a nation. Forests, marine resources, and arable land are part of a country's natural wealth, and proper management of these resources ensures the maintenance of national strength over time. Conversely, over-exploitation or unregulated development leads to land degradation and leaves a burden for future generations.

3. The Role of Primary Industries as the Backbone of Regional Economies

Primary industries often serve as the economic backbone of rural regions. Agricultural and fishing communities, which typically have larger economic disparities compared to urban areas, are vulnerable to the decline of primary industries, which can lead to the overall collapse of regional economies. On the other hand, if primary industries thrive, the living standards of local residents stabilize, and sustainable development of regional communities becomes achievable.

The Neglect of Primary Industries in Modern Society

However, in many modern nations, primary industries are frequently undervalued. Several reasons contribute to this neglect.

1. Shifts in Economic Structure

Since the Industrial Revolution, as industrialization progressed, the focus of the economy shifted to secondary and tertiary industries. As a result, primary industries came to be associated with "low income and low wages," deterring younger generations from pursuing careers in agriculture or fishing. Consequently, problems such as the aging of farmers and the abandonment of farmland have become more severe.

2. Globalization and Market Competition

With the integration of global markets, inexpensive imported foods and resources have flooded domestic markets, putting significant economic pressure on local primary industries. The lack of sufficient investment and technological innovation necessary to compete in global markets has accelerated the decline of domestic industries.

3. Political Distortions

Politically, primary industries are often left to those on the ground, with inadequate policy support. Politicians, relying on the votes of urban constituencies, tend to overlook the voices of those in rural primary industries. As a result, funding and human resources remain insufficient. Additionally, in many cases, vested interests and corruption prevent effective support measures from being implemented, leaving workers in agriculture and fisheries without improved working conditions.

The Need for Reform and Proposals for the Future

To revitalize primary industries, several reforms are necessary.

1. Strengthening Policy Support

It is crucial to provide direct subsidies and promote technological innovation in primary industries. Moreover, enhancing education and training in agriculture and fisheries will make it easier for younger generations to enter these fields. This will lead to a reevaluation of primary industries as "industries of the future."

2. Promoting Regional Economies and Decentralization

To promote sustainable development that takes advantage of regional characteristics, local governments need increased authority and financial resources to support primary industries. By leveraging each region’s unique resources and culture to create distinctive brands, regional economies can be revitalized, leading to a positive impact on the national economy as a whole.

3. Protecting Natural Resources and Environmental Conservation

To achieve sustainable primary industries, strengthening the protection of natural resources and promoting production methods that minimize environmental impact are essential. By balancing environmental conservation with economic development, we can pass on a prosperous homeland to future generations, which in turn enhances national power.

Conclusion

The wealth of primary industries forms the foundation of national power, and this often-underestimated sector should once again receive the attention it deserves. Primary industries, which support food self-sufficiency, the protection of natural resources, and the development of regional economies, should not be seen as "outdated industries," but as pillars upon which a sustainable future can be built. By addressing political distortions and reevaluating primary industries, we can achieve greater prosperity and stability for the nation.