Under the correct leadership of the CPC Central Committee and the State Council, taking Deng Xiaoping Theory and the important thought of Three Represents as the guide, and through implementing a scientific outlook on development in full swing, energetically participating in macro-regulation, rectifying the land market in an all-round way and maintaining strict control over the valve of approval for land use, new progress was made in the following items of work of the Ministry of Land and Resources (MLR) in 2004.

The land market was rectified in all-round way, with focus on clearing up problems related to development zones. By adhering to the principle of expanding some sectors while contracting others, land used both for major infrastructures in energy, transport and communications, water conservancy facilities and urban construction and for major urgently needed projects such as those for education, health and national defence was ensured. The “Decision on Deepening Reforms for Tightening Land Management” issued by the State Council was implemented conscientiously by maintaining the strictest land management system. The reform of land management systems under the provincial level took shape basically. Land-use planning and plans were implemented strictly and the scale of land used for construction was brought under control effectively, thus promoting land-use restructuring. Mineral resources management was improved and geological exploration was stimulated. The system of compensated use of mineral resources was improved, and the management of exploration and mining rights was further standardized. Further progress was made in the survey of land and resources. Efforts were made to maintain people’s lawful rights and interests. Compensation payable for land requisition that was defaulted, withheld and embezzled was fully cleared up and repaid. Significant results were achieved in prevention and control of geological hazards. Further progress was made in marine work，surveying and mapping.