China’s most stringent soil pollution prevention law to become effective from January 1, 2019

After the law comes into force, the following agricultural actions will be subject to penalties: 
 

1. Irregular treatment of agricultural waste: During agricultural production, the waste packaging of fertilizers and agricultural membranes must be forwarded to dedicated institutions for pollution-free treatment. In case of violation by individual farmers, a fine of Yuan200 to 2,000 shall be levied. In case of violation by business entities, a fine of Yuan10,000 to 100,000 shall be levied.
 

2. Discharge of toxic and hazardous substances on farmland: Discharging heavy metals or other materials containing excessive amounts of hazardous substances, such as sewage, sludge and slags, which will cause damage to soil, will incur a fine of over Yuan100,000 for less serious cases, and responsible persons shall be detained for serious cases. For violations that cause serious consequences, a fine up to Yuan2 million shall be levied.
 

3. Using polluted land for reclamation: Land reclamation can benefit sustainable agricultural production, but land polluted by heavy metals, prohibited pesticides and domestic waste must not be used for reclamation. In case of any violation, a fine over Yuan100,000 shall be levied.