December 29, 2009

Chinese farmers' per capita income shows increase

The per capita annual net income of Chinese farmers rose to RMB5,000 (US$735) this year, up more than 6% from a year ago.

The government would continue to improve farmers' lives as a crucial part in its efforts to rebalance income distribution, according to a statement released at the Central Conference on Rural Work.

It will keep stimulating rural consumption, which is significant in driving up domestic demand.

Although rural residents comprise more than 70% of China's population, public resources conventionally lean to the better-developed urban areas. This leaves a widening gap between the two, an issue the government has promised to solve.

Meanwhile, the government will make all efforts to stabilise grain production, and keep prices of farm produce at a reasonable level. Technology would also play a bigger role in expanding grain output, said the statement.