The Legal and Institutional Framework to Address Food Security Needs

Abstract

This chapter begins by discussing the authorities under which China’s food and food security system operate: the 1982 constitution, the framework of laws, and both regulations and policies. It introduces the most important central ministries, classifying them into agencies emphasizing food production, food consumption, system-wide control functions, and related agencies. Then, devolution of authority and enforcement powers to sub-national governments is examined, showing weakened government authority at the local level while the central government attempts to improve integration and coordination throughout the system. The role of non-governmental organizations (NGOs) in food security is treated, with a focus on Greenpeace’s campaigns in China. The chapter then analyzes the important network of laws and institutions dealing with food security. The most recent is China’s new food safety regime. Discussion centers on how China handled international criticism of its “tainted products,” through revising the structure of the food safety system, revision of laws and regulations, and adoption of corrective measures.