The Chinese government has enacted landmark legislation to standardize water supply management nationwide. Premier Li Qiang formally signed the State Council decree on February 14, 2026, establishing a comprehensive regulatory framework that will become effective on June 1, 2026.
This significant policy development addresses growing concerns about water security and resource management amid increasing urbanization and climate challenges. The regulation establishes uniform standards for water quality monitoring, infrastructure maintenance, and service delivery across China’s diverse regions.
Government officials indicate the legislation will prioritize sustainable water resource allocation, emergency response protocols for supply disruptions, and transparency requirements for water quality reporting. The framework specifically addresses needs in both densely populated urban centers and rural communities where water access has historically been inconsistent.
Environmental experts have welcomed the regulation as a critical step toward addressing water scarcity issues that have emerged in northern regions and seasonal drought-affected areas. The legislation also establishes accountability mechanisms for water management authorities and outlines public participation processes for community input on water resource decisions.
Implementation will involve coordinated efforts between national ministries, provincial governments, and municipal authorities to ensure compliance with the new standards. The regulation represents China’s most comprehensive effort to date to create a unified national approach to water supply management and conservation.