Empirical Study on the Effect of Abolishing Agricultural Tax on Farmers' Income

The panel dataset which covered the socio-economic data of 31 provinces （municipalities and autonomous region） in China from 2000-2007 was used to do empirical analysis on the effect of abolishing agricultural taxes on farmers＇ income by referring to the fixed effect estimation method. It found that the abolition of agricultural taxes increased farmer＇s net income per capita by 2%. Combining with the results of empirical analysis, related policy suggestions were put forward to increase farmers＇ income.

An Empirical Study on the Cadre Responsibility System of Local Government in China

Based on nationally representative panel data, this paper examines the content and evolution of China＇s cadre responsibility system at county-township and township- village levels. Our findings suggest that, with abolition of agricultural tax, there has been a series of changes in the focus of evaluation both at county-township and township-village levels. In county-township evaluation system, importance of economic development and social stability grew but fiscal pressure did not weaken; while in township-village system, original indicator of fiscal pressure became less important. Meanwhile, by enhancing ＂veto＂ indicator of evaluation on village cadres, township government attempted to cascade the pressure of social stability to village administration. Although central government has initiated a series of reforms on agriculture, countryside and farmers, county and township governments did not pay more attention to rural infrastructure. In addition, county government paid less and less attention to farmers＇ income growth.

End of an Era The 2,600-year-old agricultural tax is finally abolished

Getting the balance right between rural and urban areas in the quest to achieve a harmonious society is something causing the Chinese Government sleepless nights. In line with a resolution of the Standing Committee of the 10th National