Guizhou advances natural resource priorities for development and security

A provincial meeting on key natural resources tasks for 2026, chaired by Zhou Hongwen, director of the Guizhou Department of Natural Resources, was held on March 6 in Guiyang.

Officials emphasized that major natural resource work is closely linked to food security, ecological protection, resource management, and people's livelihoods. As the first year of the 15th Five-Year Plan (2026-30) begins, natural resource systems at all levels have been urged to assume greater responsibility, ensure tasks are clearly assigned to counties and staff members, and promote effective implementation.

The meeting called for strengthened accountability, closer interdepartmental coordination, and a practical approach to policy execution. Authorities will also intensify supervision, with routine inspections and strict accountability measures for negligence or misconduct.

Several priority tasks were outlined for the year, including authorities promoting the exchange and optimization of forest and cultivated land, aiming to complete 600,000 mu (40,000 hectares) of adjustments while respecting residents' wishes and ensuring quality standards. Efforts will also continue to curb the illegal occupation of farmland, with a zero-tolerance approach to new violations.

Meanwhile, the province will accelerate the revitalization of idle and unused land resources, improve land supply mechanisms, and enhance service support. Work will also advance on relocation programs for residents in areas prone to geological disasters, ensuring safe resettlement and proper management of funds.

Guizhou also plans to strengthen oversight of mining rights, crack down on inactive or speculative claims, and promote more efficient and responsible mineral resource development.