数量增长不是耕地保护终点

Core Viewpoint - The shift from a decrease to an increase in arable land is not the end of land protection but a new starting point, emphasizing the importance of utilizing arable land effectively to ensure food security in China [1][5]. Group 1: Current Status and Challenges - The trend of decreasing arable land has been reversed, with total arable land increasing to 1.94 billion acres by the end of 2024, an increase of 28 million acres since 2020 [1]. - Despite the positive trend, challenges remain, including a shortage of quality arable land, illegal land use, and the ongoing issue of "non-agricultural" and "non-grain" land use [2]. Group 2: Policy Framework - The Chinese government has established a policy toolbox consisting of regulatory, incentive-based, and construction-oriented measures to protect arable land, with a target of maintaining at least 1.865 billion acres of arable land and 1.546 billion acres of permanent basic farmland [2]. - The implementation of laws, such as the black soil protection law, has strengthened accountability and reduced illegal land use [2]. Group 3: Economic and Conceptual Perspectives - An economic reward and penalty mechanism is proposed to balance the interests of provinces regarding arable land protection, with compensation for provinces falling short of targets and rewards for those exceeding them [3]. - Innovative approaches are encouraged, such as developing salt-tolerant crop varieties and ensuring a balance between land occupation and compensation to prevent adverse practices [3]. Group 4: Agricultural Infrastructure and Practices - The construction of high-standard farmland is crucial for improving land quality, with increased financial support from the central government aimed at enhancing infrastructure and disaster resilience [4]. - Prioritization of high-quality arable land for grain production is emphasized, alongside the development of modern agricultural practices to alleviate pressure on arable land and diversify agricultural supply [4].