Understanding "Cropland abandonment" in China: policy text analysis

Abandoned cropland presents a critical challenge to global food security and an opportunity for ecological restoration. In the context of the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development (SDGs 15.3 and 15.5), understanding the institutional mechanisms governing land-use change is essential. Here, we present a systematic quantitative analysis of 123 national policy documents in China from 1983 to 2024 to delineate the evolutionary trajectories of cropland abandonment governance. We identify four distinct stages of policy evolution, culminating in a phase of intensified institutional activity. However, our analysis reveals a persistent reliance on agricultural administrative departments and command-and-control instruments, which may limit long-term effectiveness. We suggest a transition toward a multi-stakeholder governance regime that integrates smallholders, agribusinesses, and ecologists, while being complemented by supply-side and environmental policy instruments. Leveraging technological innovation for information-driven accountability mechanisms can align domestic land-use efficiency with international sustainability targets. These findings provide a framework for other emerging economies seeking to balance rural revitalization with land preservation.