Farmers allowed to transfer land-use rights
The mainland yesterday announced a widely anticipated reform allowing farmers to transfer their so-called land-use rights, which the government sees as a way to develop large-scale agriculture and improve rural living standards.
The policy, announced through the release of a document by Xinhua, had been expected at the close of a Communist Party meeting a week ago. The delay prompted speculation that the reform had run into trouble.
Under mainland law, farmland is collectively owned, but allocated to farmers in small plots under long-term leasing contracts, typically 30 years. The decision endorsed by the party's Central Committee would establish markets for the lease of contracted farmland and the transfer of land-use rights, allowing farmers to sub-contract, lease or exchange their rights, Xinhua said.
One such market has already been set up in the southwest city of Chengdu .
Transfers must be voluntary, in return for adequate payment and legally carried out, the document said. It said the land must be used for its original purpose.
