At the recent Changbai Mountain Forum 2024, renowned expert Meng Xiaosu put forward a forward-looking idea: to promote rural economic growth by 8% by implementing "equal rights and equal prices" for rural land, allowing rural land to circulate freely like urban real estate. This view is not only far-sighted, but also widely controversial.
Meng Xiaosu pointed out that at present, China's development is still centered on cities, and the interests of rural areas, especially low- and middle-income farmers, have not been fully reflected. On the economic front, the disparity between urban and rural areas is not a long-term solution. He pointed out that only by ensuring the fair reflection of the value of rural land can farmers truly share the fruits of economic development and promote rural revitalization. Specifically, "equal rights and same price" means that rural land, like urban real estate, can be freely purchased, leased or transferred by any person or unit, and is no longer limited by geographical and identity differences. This will break the long-term "zombie" state of rural land and promote its market-oriented circulation. Studies have shown that if fully implemented, "equal rights and equal prices" will increase GDP by nearly 8%.
Netizens have mixed opinions on Meng Xiaosu.
Some people believe that this is an important reform in line with the trend of the times, which is conducive to narrowing the gap between urban and rural areas and promoting rural revitalization。However, as soon as this remark came out, it immediately sparked a heated discussion on the Internet. Some people support Meng Xiaosu's view, arguing that this is in line with the principle of fairness and justice, which can allow more farmers to profit from the land, and at the same time contribute to the efficient allocation of resources and promote agricultural development. However, many more expressed doubts and concerns.
There are fears that free trade in land will lead to land annexation, the wealthy or large corporations may buy up land in large quantities, making small farmers landless. It has also been pointed out that it is too early to implement the principle of "equal rights and equal price" even if it is difficult to transfer land in cities. Some have even questioned whether this means a return to the ancient system of "predatory" collective ownership.
In addition, there are those who believe that this is not good for low- and middle-income farmers in the long run. Once the land is transferred, the land will definitely be transferred, and it will be difficult for farmers to bear the cost of purchase, and they may eventually fall into the status of tenant farmers.
Overall, the comment section presents a heated atmosphere of discussion, full of controversy and questions. Indeed, Meng Xiaosu's vision is far-sighted, but there are also many difficulties in its implementation that are worth pondering.
First, support measures need to be put in place to prevent the loss of smallholder farmers and the tendency of land concentration before implementation.
Second, differences in different regions need to be addressed in a targeted manner and cannot be taken in a "one-size-fits-all" manner.
Finally, this is a long-term process that requires the participation of all sectors of society in research and gradual progress.
In general, the reform of the rural land system is related to the overall situation of rural revitalization, and we need to be cautious. We should have an open and rational attitude and discuss together for the well-being of the villages and farmers. Only through practice can we gradually find a correct solution that suits China's national conditions.