Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the evolution and significance of the "three-in-one" cooperative economic model in rural finance, highlighting its historical context, challenges, and ongoing relevance in addressing rural financing issues in China [1][2]. Group 1: Historical Context and Development - In April 2005, Chen Lin initiated the "three-in-one" cooperative economic reform in Ruian, Zhejiang, focusing on integrating production, supply, and credit systems to address rural financing challenges [3][4]. - The Ruian Rural Cooperative Bank was established in 2005, transitioning from a credit cooperative, which faced governance issues due to unclear ownership of member shares [3]. - By 2006, the "three-in-one" concept was formally adopted in Ruian, leading to the establishment of the Ruian Rural Cooperative Association, the first county-level comprehensive rural cooperative organization in China [4][5]. Group 2: Implementation and Expansion - The reform model gained recognition, with the Ruian cooperative model being included in national governance innovation achievements by 2014, and later incorporated into national rural reform pilot zones [8]. - Chen Lin emphasized the importance of a cooperative mechanism to complement rather than replace traditional banking, aiming to reduce costs and improve access to finance for rural communities [5][6]. - By 2009, the cooperative association had over 10,000 members, demonstrating the model's success in expanding financial access in rural areas [6]. Group 3: Challenges and Ongoing Issues - Despite initial successes, the model faced challenges post-2007, including regulatory caution from financial authorities and a slowdown in reform progress in some regions [7][9]. - The emergence of funding mutual aid societies has been beneficial for rural financing, but these organizations face increasing regulatory pressure and uncertainty regarding their legal status [9][10]. - Chen Lin argues that the core issue is the unclear institutional positioning of rural cooperative finance, which has led to a "one-size-fits-all" regulatory approach that may undermine the sustainability of these financial models [10][11].

Core Viewpoint - The "three-in-one" cooperative economy model, initiated in Zhejiang, aims to integrate production, supply, and credit services to enhance agricultural efficiency and support farmers, with significant recognition and implementation at the national level [1][2][4]. Group 1: Historical Context and Development - In January 2006, Xi Jinping proposed the "three-in-one" cooperative economy concept, which was piloted in Zhejiang, particularly through the efforts of Chen Lin, who played a crucial role in its development [1]. - The model gained national attention, with the Central Government emphasizing its importance in various policy documents, including the 2017 and 2021 Central No. 1 documents, which called for the strengthening of farmer cooperatives and comprehensive cooperation [1][2]. Group 2: Challenges and Solutions - During the nationwide promotion of the "three-in-one" model, some regions experienced "deformation" and "diminution" of the original concept, prompting Chen Lin to publish a book addressing these issues and proposing solutions [2][4]. - Chen Lin highlighted the importance of focusing on the needs of farmers rather than bureaucratic divisions, advocating for a cooperative approach that integrates various sectors to enhance agricultural productivity [6][8]. Group 3: Financial Implications - The cooperative economy is seen as a mechanism to ensure financial security and support farmers' income, with the potential to address the challenges posed by traditional financial systems that often overlook small farmers [16][27]. - The upcoming implementation of the "Food Security Law" emphasizes the role of new agricultural entities, such as family farms and cooperatives, in enhancing food production capabilities and ensuring farmers' interests [16]. Group 4: International Comparisons and Lessons - International examples, such as the success of agricultural cooperatives in the U.S. and Japan, illustrate the effectiveness of cooperative models in maintaining market stability and supporting farmers' interests [22][23]. - The cooperative model is essential for creating a robust agricultural sector in China, enabling farmers to negotiate better terms with larger market players and ensuring food security [23].