The new legislation, passed on Friday, addresses the multifaceted challenges faced by China, including limited arable land, low-quality soil, and a growing demand for grain.
China’s top legislative body, the National People’s Congress (NPC) Standing Committee, has officially adopted a comprehensive food security law aimed at ensuring a stable and sufficient supply of grain and related products for the nation’s vast population exceeding 1.4 billion. The new legislation, passed on Friday, addresses the multifaceted challenges faced by China, including limited arable land, low-quality soil, and a growing demand for grain.
With only 9 percent of the world’s arable land, China’s food security is of vital importance, especially considering its role as a major global grain consumer. Despite achieving a grain harvest of over 650 million tonnes for nine consecutive years and maintaining a self-sufficiency rate above 95 percent, the country faces ongoing challenges in ensuring a steady and high-quality grain output.
The food security law, set to take effect on June 1, 2024, emphasizes the need to “ensure absolute security in staple foods and basic self-sufficiency in grains,” signaling the country’s commitment to maintaining control over its food supply.
One key aspect of the law is the protection of arable land through the establishment and maintenance of redlines, safeguarding farmland, permanent basic cropland, ecosystems, and urban development boundaries. Restrictions on the conversion of farmland to other land uses, such as forests and grasslands, are outlined to preserve valuable agricultural resources.
In terms of grain production, the law highlights the importance of creating a national agricultural germplasm resource bank and enhancing the national system for cultivating superior crop varieties. Mechanized technologies, disaster prevention, mitigation, and relief in grain production are also emphasized.
To support farmers, the law introduces measures to increase their income, recognizing their critical role in the country’s food production. China has consistently achieved a grain harvest that meets the needs of its population, but the law acknowledges the importance of addressing a “tight balance” in grain supply and demand.
A dedicated chapter on food conservation addresses the issue of food waste, outlining requirements to reduce waste across various stages, from production to consumption. The law also covers aspects of grain reserves, distribution, processing, and emergency response to ensure a comprehensive approach to food security.
Wang Zhimin, a member of the NPC Standing Committee, emphasized the significance of the new legislation in advancing China’s modernization. The food security law, along with existing laws on land management, seeds, black soil conservation, and food waste, forms a robust legal framework to underpin the country’s food security efforts.
The passage of this comprehensive food security law reflects China’s commitment to addressing the challenges posed by a rapidly growing population and evolving agricultural landscape. By enacting measures to protect arable land, enhance grain production, and combat food waste, China aims to fortify its foundation for long-term food security governance and contribute to its overarching goals of modernization and sustainability.