Did China Buy Land in North Dakota?
Published: May 20, 2026
The question “Did China buy land in North Dakota?” has sparked debate amid growing concerns over foreign ownership of U.S. agricultural land. While no direct purchases by the Chinese government have been confirmed, a Chinese company’s acquisition near a military base raised alarms. This article examines the facts objectively.
What Sparked the Claim That China Bought Land in North Dakota?
In 2022, Fufeng Group, a Chinese agribusiness firm, purchased approximately 370 acres in Grand Forks County, North Dakota. The land was intended for a $350 million corn processing facility. Its location, just 12 miles from Grand Forks Air Force Base, prompted questions about “did China buy land in North Dakota” due to national security risks.
Did the Purchase Actually Go Through?
Yes, initially. Fufeng acquired the property through a U.S. subsidiary in 2022. However, U.S. officials quickly scrutinized the deal. The proximity to a drone training base fueled fears of espionage, leading to federal intervention under the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS).
What Happened After China Attempted to Buy the Land?
In 2024, CFIUS ordered Fufeng to divest the property. North Dakota’s Attorney General also moved to seize the land, citing violations of state farmland ownership laws restricting foreign entities. The state ultimately repurchased the site, ensuring it remains under American control.
Are There Broader Concerns About Chinese Land Ownership in the U.S.?
Foreign ownership of U.S. farmland totals about 40 million acres, with Chinese entities holding around 384,000 acres nationwide as of recent USDA data. North Dakota has seen limited such holdings, but incidents like this highlight ongoing debates over food security and military vulnerabilities.
What Laws Regulate Foreign Land Purchases in North Dakota?
North Dakota law prohibits nonresident aliens and foreign businesses from owning more than 15% of certain agricultural land. Federal oversight via CFIUS reviews deals near sensitive sites. These measures addressed the “did China buy land in North Dakota” scenario effectively.
Common Misconceptions About Did China Buy Land in North Dakota
A frequent misconception is that China directly owns vast tracts. In reality, purchases are by private firms, often opaque, and subject to reversal. No evidence supports claims of government-orchestrated land grabs in the state.
In summary, while a Chinese company briefly owned land in North Dakota, swift U.S. action prevented long-term foreign control. This case underscores vigilance in protecting strategic assets.
People Also Ask
How much U.S. farmland does China own?
Chinese-linked entities own less than 1% of foreign-held U.S. farmland, totaling under 400,000 acres per USDA reports.
Can foreign companies buy land near U.S. military bases?
No, CFIUS typically blocks or reverses such deals if they pose security risks.
What states restrict Chinese land ownership?
Several, including North Dakota, Florida, and Texas, have enacted or strengthened bans on foreign agricultural land purchases.