China.org.cn | September 13, 2024
Nanfang Daily, Nanfang Plus:
The Resolution of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China on Further Deepening Reform Comprehensively to Advance Chinese Modernization, adopted at the third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee, called for an increase in the construction and supply of government-subsidized housing to meet wage earners' essential housing needs. What specific steps will be taken next to ensure the effective implementation of this policy? Thank you.
Ni Hong:
Regarding housing, there are two aspects: one is the guarantee system, and the other is the market mechanism. Both need to be managed and coordinated. Could Mr. Dong elaborate on how to achieve this balance?
Dong Jianguo:
The Nanfang Daily reporter's question addresses a key concern for urban families facing housing difficulties, new urban residents and young people. The Party Central Committee and the State Council place great importance on housing security work. Since the 18th CPC National Congress, we've steadily improved our housing security system and expanded government-subsidized housing construction. Last year, the State Council issued a document on the planning and construction of government-subsidized housing, categorizing it into rental and sale properties and exploring new approaches for the latter.
In accordance with the directives of the Party Central Committee and the State Council, we, together with relevant departments, have strengthened overall planning and guidance. We have instructed local governments to focus on constructing sale-type government-subsidized housing to quickly resolve housing difficulties for wage earners. Simultaneously, we have emphasized supplying rental-type government-subsidized housing, offering diverse solutions such as "a bed, a room, or an apartment" to address the housing needs of new urban residents and young people. In the first seven months of this year, construction began on 2.35 million units of government-subsidized housing and resettlement housing for urban village renovations, with over 440 billion yuan invested.
The third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee called for increased construction and supply of government-subsidized housing. Our ministry will work with relevant departments to guide local governments in implementing and enforcing these directives.
First, we focus on planning. Government-subsidized housing planning is a crucial component of the overall housing development plan. We guide local governments to base their plans on regional economic capabilities, real estate market conditions, and the housing needs of various groups in difficulty. We emphasize "building and purchasing according to demand," tailoring government-subsidized housing plans to local conditions through five-year and annual plans. We prioritize allocating government-subsidized housing in areas with convenient transportation and well-equipped public facilities to promote a balance between work and residence. We also summarize and promote the experiences and practices of relevant cities, maintain and improve the rotation system for eligible residents, conduct regular application acceptance, and accurately assess the specific needs of these residents.
Second, we focus on improving the system. At the national level, we've issued a series of policy documents on planning and constructing government-subsidized housing, forming a relatively complete policy system. We are currently guiding local governments to align with the overarching national strategy and combine it with local realities. We encourage them to adhere to the principle of doing their best while acting within their means and to promptly introduce specific implementation opinions, management measures, and supporting policies. We also guide them to further refine and perfect the specific requirements for eligible recipients, protection methods, protection standards, distribution management, and other aspects to ensure the effective and orderly progress of all work.
Third, we focus on project construction. For projects in this year's plan, we are ensuring the implementation of fiscal, tax, land and financial support policies to expedite commencement and construction, enhance quality and safety supervision, and promptly initiate rental and sale arrangements for swift public occupancy. We will also enhance project planning and reserves, prepare for projects for the upcoming two years, and establish a rolling mechanism for project advancement that includes "implementing, reserving, and planning." Additionally, based on local real estate market conditions, we are actively promoting the acquisition of existing commercial housing stock for government-subsidized housing use, accelerating acquisitions for qualifying projects, and ensuring timely rental and sale arrangements.
Fourth, we focus on the "good house" model. Some may believe that "good houses" only refer to improved housing and commercial properties. This is a misconception. Government-subsidized housing is a heart-winning government project. It should be built as "good housing," which is the government's responsibility and obligation. Currently, various regions have identified a number of demonstration projects for government-subsidized housing, which are being developed to be "green, low-carbon, intelligent, and safe." We are continuously improving the quality of government-subsidized housing and striving to ensure that the public live in a healthy, safe, and convenient environment. Thank you.