Water Law of the People's Republic of China. Country/Territory China Document type Legislation Date 1988 Source FAO, FAOLEX Subject Water Keyword Framework law Basic legislation Water charges Policy/planning Freshwater resources management Authorization/permit Priorities Navigation Research Irrigation Institution Right to water Waterworks Hydropower generation Flood Dispute settlement Water rights Human rights Geographical area Asia, ASIA AND THE PACIFIC, East Asian Seas, Eastern Asia, North Pacific, North-West Pacific Abstract The purpose of this Law is to provide for the rational development, utilization and protection of water resources, as well as the prevention and control of water hazards, so as to meet the needs of national economic development and people's welfare. "Water resources" refers to surface water and groundwater, excluding sea water. Full text English