At the National Water Conservation Work Conference in Beijing on January 5-6, Minister Li Guoying announced a monumental achievement: 2025 water conservation investments totaling 12.848 trillion yuan. This surpasses 10 trillion yuan for the fourth consecutive year, solidifying China’s role as a powerhouse in water resource development.
The portfolio includes 47,563 projects that have generated 3.15 million jobs, fueling economic activity and skill development in water-related sectors.
Notable successes encompass expanding the national water network, advancing flood-drought mitigation strategies, revitalizing river-lake ecologies, and establishing digital twin frameworks for intelligent management. These outcomes reflect coordinated efforts across government levels.
In an era of intensifying water scarcity, such investments are transformative. They enhance resilience against natural disasters, support agricultural productivity, and promote ecological balance. The digital innovations, especially, enable precise forecasting and efficient allocation.
The minister’s address outlined a roadmap blending infrastructure with digital prowess, aiming for self-sufficient water systems. This strategic push not only addresses domestic needs but also positions China to influence international water policy dialogues.