The Grassland Law was promulgated in 1985 and amended in 2002, 2009 and 2013 respectively. The latest revision entered into force on June 29, 2013.

There are 75 articles in total.

The key points are as follows:

1.The grasslands are owned by the State, with the exception of the grasslands owned by collectives as provided for by law.

2.With respect to the State-owned grasslands, the State Council shall exercise the right of such ownership on behalf of the State.

3.The grasslands owned by collectives or the State-owned grasslands which have been assigned for use to collective economic organizations may be contracted for management by households individually or jointly within the said collective economic organizations.

4.The State encourages units and individuals to invest in grassland development and, following the principle that whoever invests benefits, protects the legitimate rights and interests of the investors for grassland development.

5.Contractors for grassland management shall make rational use of the grasslands, and they may not exceed the stock-carrying capacity verified by the competent administrative department for grasslands. Reclamation of grasslands is prohibited.