Advertisement

Reforms to improve rural life announced

Reading Time:2 minutes
Why you can trust SCMP
0

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.

Advertisement
Select Voice
Choose your listening speed
Get through articles 2-3x faster
1.1x
220 WPM
Slow
Normal
Fast
1.1x