Reports

Discussion Papers

No.837 Is land right confirmation the first step toward privatization?

by Zhe Ren

February 2022

ABSTRACT

China has started the nationwide land rights confirmation, registration, and certification work since 2013. The boundaries of collective assets in rural areas and personal assets and individuals’ share in collective assets have become more evident. This paper observed disputes in the confirmation process and bargaining between various stakeholders. By comparing case studies from Zhejiang and Guangdong, we examined the fixed number of shares introduced to solve many disputes. We conclude that the meaning of collectives changed dramatically due to rapid urbanization, and the land rights confirmation makes it easier toward privatization of collective properties.

Keywords: Land; Rights confirmation; Urbanization; China

JEL classification: K11, K42, R52, O30

Please note that discussion papers are works in various stages of progress and most have not been edited and proofread and may contain errors of fact or judgment. Revised versions of these papers may subsequently appear in more formal publication series. The views expressed in this publication are those of the author(s). The IDE does not guarantee the accuracy of the data included and accepts no responsibility for any consequences arising from its use.