The consumer price index has risen further than China would like
Chinese farmers will get $15bn ( 9.4bn; 98.6bn yuan) support to help them cope with the effects of the recent drought.
The allocation is aimed at boosting farmers' income and reducing the cost of diesel, fertiliser and pesticides, said the finance ministry.
Local authorities plan to award the money before crop planting in spring.
Officials say the dry weather has hit four million hectares (9.9 million acres) in north and south China, destroying crops.
The drought has driven up food prices, which has caused inflation and stretched household budgets.
The consumer price index increased 3.3% over last year, higher than Beijing's target.
Inflation is expected to increase again because of increased customer spending for the Chinese Lunar New Year, which takes place in early February.
Earlier this week the National Meteorological Center said most northern Chinese regions, plagued by a months-long drought, will continue to see cold and dry weather in the next week.
Source: BBC News
Related News
Photos
More>>
trade
- Chinese Premier Visits Farmers, Workers to Extend Spring Festival Greetings
- China, U.S. Resume High-level Military Exchanges, Agree to Avoid Misunderstandin
- Senior Leader Visits Festival Gala Performers
- Chinese Opera Wu Attracts Cuban Audience
- China Ready for Doha End-game in 2011: Chinese Commerce Minister
market
- Helping Hands in the Rough Journey for Passengers
- Chinese Premier Welcomes Foreign Talents Working in China
- Senior Chinese Leader Calls on Religious Figures to Contribute More to Economic,
- Hu's Fruitful Visit Opens New Chapter of China-U.S. Cooperation: Foreign
- Top Chinese Leaders Attend New Year Army-civilian Gala
finance
- Russia, China Hold Fifth Round of Strategic Security Talks
- Senior Chinese Official Encourages Jurists to Participate in Legislation, Better
- Chinese in New York Celebrate Spring Festival, Presenting Traditional Culture
- DPRK Leader Meets Chinese Senior Official
- Chinese Vice President Stresses Integrity-first Criteria in Electing Communist