China solicits public opinions on draft property registration

The government is seeking public feedback on a proposed real estate registration system aimed at curbing speculation in the housing market.

A unified, national real estate registration system should be established so registration information can be shared among government departments in real time, a draft registration posted on the Legislative Affairs Office of the State Council said.

Members of the public can voice their comments on the proposal before September 15.

The registration information will be shared between public security, civil affairs, taxation, finance and audit authorities in addition to government departments concerning land and resources as well as industry and commerce. It will not impact the legitimate rights of property owners, the draft said.

It would allow the government to access and copy relevant registration information during investigations, but such information would not be made public without consent of the property owners.

Authorities and individuals found illegally publishing property registration information under the new system would be subject to fines in accordance with the law and could face criminal charges.