Farmers´ income high on government agenda

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Source: CCTV.com | 03-09-2009 09:49

Falling prices of agricultural products since the fourth quarter of last year has meant less money for farmers. Their situation has been made worse by the international financial crisis. So how to achieve growth of farmers' income is a burning issue on the NPC agenda.

Falling prices of agricultural products since the fourth  quarter of last year has meant less money for farmers.  Their situation has been made worse by the international  financial crisis.

A pork vendor said,"Pork has gone down to 4 and a half yuan a kilo. Half a year ago, it could sell for 6 yuan. Our income is shrinking. What's worse is that pork sales aren't as good as last year."

An egg vendor said, "We're going through hard times. A lot fewer people come to buy. And the price is falling to a very low point. I have no idea when the price will bounce back. All I can do is try to hold on."

Zhang Wencheng, NPC Deputy, said, "I have submitted a proposal on farmers' income. The prices of grain and agricultural produce are at a very low level. The government should give farmers subsidies to fend off various risks that might be caused by continuous price falls."

Li Guo'an, the NPC Deputy, said, "Although some agricultural taxes have been exempted, farmers are still feeling the pinch. Something more needs to be done. The government should help them increase their income. For example, to encourage them to start up their own businesses."