China strengthens protection of farmland

The General Office of the State Council issued a circular on Sept 15 requiring efforts to implement the strictest farmland protection to prevent non-agricultural activities on farmlands and resolutely defend the red line.

According to the circular, the following acts are strictly prohibited on farmlands, especially on permanent, basic farmlands: illegal afforestation, building green channels beyond standards, digging lakes or building scenic spots, expanding nature reserve areas, as well as non-agricultural construction.

Land approval and usage against laws and regulations are also strictly banned, according to the document.

Related departments across regions are required to assume responsibilities for protecting farmlands, and conduct overall inspections on farmland protection.

The Ministry of Natural Resources, the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs and other departments should supervise and inspect the implementation of the circular.