Zhu Zhigang, vice minister of finance, recently announced that China is going to improve its forecasting and monitoring system for non-staple foods such as live pigs and pork, build a pork reserve institution, and appropriately enlarge the capacity of State pork reserves.

The Ministry of Finance has decided to set aside funds to support sow-related insurance and subsidies, aiming at stimulating the production of live pigs and guaranteeing minimum living security of low-income families.

Zhu said the sow insurance and rearing subsidy schemes are expected to be launched at the end of this month. The proposal on increasing State pork reserves is now waiting for the State Council's approval.