Agricultural census and improvement of rural statistics in China

This paper provides the formation and characteristics of the traditional rural statistical system in China, then summarizes the preparations and practice of the agricultural census, describes some shortcomings existing in the rural statistical system and the reforms which have been made, and points out the direction of further reforms. Finally, the application and combination of various survey methods in order to improve the rural statistics in China is discussed. Rural productive forces have been greatly liberated and developed with the practice of reform and open-door policies in China. It enables the rural community and economy to undergo an in-depth and historical change, so the rural statistics system faces more and more challenges and urgently needs to be reformed and improved. The success of the first National Agricultural Census conducted in 1997 has provided a good chance for further improving the rural statistics in China.