China to introduce three-tier water pricing

China has vowed to establish a water pricing system for households in cities across the country by the end of 2015, as part of efforts to improve water conservation.

It will introduce three pricing brackets for water consumption, with the highest users paying the most. Local governments will set their own charges according to local conditions.

The cost of water will rise as people use more, with the most use costing up to three times more. Local governments will also offer discounts for low-income families to ensure they won't take a hit from the new pricing system.