The opportunities, challenges and measures to enhance irrigation service performance and efficiency in the new context of irrigation fee policy.

Abstract

    The government policy to exempt irrigation service fee for farmers to improve their living conditions, enhance compatitive capacity of agro-products in the market, and contribute to poverty reduction, has proved some positive social impacts. Within this context, some changes need to be done in terms of policies, organizational structure, infrastructure and finance management in irrigation sector. The paper discussed opportunities and challenges in irrigation management, some empirical research results and recommdendations as well as further studies needed to enhance irrigation service performance and efficiency.