China Mobile’s Nongxington – or farming information service – was launched four years ago. The company is currently focusing on expanding its delivery in China’s west and southwest regions.
China Mobile created Nongxington to deliver information and news directly to the farmers via their mobile phones.
And for those farm workers who cannot yet afford a basic US$30 phone, they can have one for free so long as their total monthly bill exceeds US$2.
Nongxington runs on a web and mobile-based platform. Subscribers receive text or even audio messages – advice, warnings, job opportunities, buyers, sellers, market prices – tailored to their needs.
The BBC reports the basic service costs around US$6 per year.