Is "importing feces" crazy?

You may have heard of imported cars and luxury goods, but have you ever thought that one day feces could also become a popular commodity in international trade? This is not a joke, but a special industry that is quietly emerging - feces import agency. Today, let's lift the veil of this seemingly absurd but science-based industry.

In the eyes of most people, feces are just waste that needs to be disposed of. However, in the fields of agriculture and ecology, it is a precious organic resource. Mr. Zhang, a farmer engaged in organic agriculture, told us: "High-quality organic fertilizer sources in China are becoming increasingly scarce, and the livestock feces in some countries, due to their unique feed structure and breeding environment, contain a richer microbial community and nutrients."

• Soil improvement needs: Long-term use of chemical fertilizers has led to soil compaction, and there is an urgent need for organic matter supplementation.
• The rise of organic agriculture: Consumers' demand for pollution-free food has driven the organic fertilizer market.
• Ecological restoration projects: A large amount of organic substrates are needed for wetland restoration, mine reclamation, etc.

Ms. Li, a senior import agent of Zhongshitong, shared the trade process of this special commodity: "Every link, from quarantine approval to transportation and processing, needs to be strictly controlled."

First of all, imported feces must go through high-temperature sterilization treatment to ensure harmlessness; secondly, a complete certificate of origin and component test report need to be provided; finally, it also needs to pass the special quarantine of the customs. The whole process usually takes 3 - 6 months, and the cost is 30% - 50% higher than domestic procurement, but the market demand remains strong.

Why import feces from afar? Scientific research data gives the answer:

• The feces of reindeer in Nordic countries contain special low-temperature decomposition flora.
• The pH value of kangaroo feces in Australia is more suitable for crop absorption.
• The lignin degradation efficiency of Japanese Wagyu feces is 20% higher than that of ordinary cow feces.

Feces import is not only a commercial behavior but also reflects the concept of circular economy. Transforming the "waste" of other countries into our resources not only reduces landfill pollution but also creates economic value. It is estimated that for every 1 ton of high-quality feces imported, it is equivalent to reducing the use of about 0.3 tons of chemical fertilizers and reducing the risk of soil acidification by 15%.

After three years of using imported feces on Mr. Zhang's farm, the soil organic matter content increased from 1.2% to 2.8%. While the crop yield increased steadily, the product premium reached twice the average market price. "Although the cost is higher, consumers are willing to pay for genuine organic products," he summarized.

When we re-examine the value of feces, perhaps we should think: In this era of limited resources, there is no absolute waste, only resources in the wrong place. The next time you hear about "importing feces", I hope you can understand the scientific logic and economic value behind it.

If you are interested in organic agriculture or special commodity trade, feel free to leave a message to share your views. Maybe the next one to turn "impossible" into "business opportunity" is you.