China Invites Public Opinions on Grain Law Draft

The Legislative Affairs office of the State Council, or China's cabinet, on Tuesday released a draft of a new grain law to solicit public opinions.

The draft, jointly prepared by the National Development and Reform Commission and the State Administration of Grain, aims to ensure grain security by stabilizing grain output and intensifying control and supervision over the market.

The draft includes stipulations concerning the market deployment of grain resources and the safeguarding of grain production, circulation and quality.

According to the draft, the production, circulation and sale of edible vegetable oil will also be subject to the bill, as it is a daily necessity for most people.

The draft encourages grain producers to improve storage conditions to ensure grain quality and stipulates that producers should use fertilizers, pesticides and agricultural films in a "scientific and reasonable" way.

In addition, the draft regulates operations and circulations in the grain processing industry.

According to the draft, grain producers are forbidden to process mildewed grains or those that have been contaminated by pesticide residue or heavy metals. Contaminated vehicles and packing materials are also forbidden to be used to transport grain.

The draft states that provincial governments are responsible for regional grain production, circulation, storage and regulation to ensure grain quality and supplies.

To ensure market order, the draft bans grain traders from spreading rumors, manipulating prices, monopolizing the market or cheating customers.

Opinions on the draft can be submitted by logging on to chinalaw.gov.cn or via postal mail. Opinions must be submitted before March 31.