China's Ministry of Commerce is urging local authorities to take measures to protect farmers from the slumping wholesale vegetable prices.

The Ministry is requiring local departments to guide supermarkets to purchase vegetables directly from farmers. Markets should also keep their retail prices within a reasonable range, and establish special counters for vegetables. To provide analysis on price movements, the ministry will take full advantage of the Internet.

Cooperatives and farmers are encouraged to publish information online about any difficulties they may encounter when selling their produce. The ministry has also called for enhanced price monitoring and improved communication between farmers and produce dealers.