Around 1 billion yuan ($159.27 million) will be spent to improve how hay is used and treated in an area measuring 100 million mu (6.67 million hectares), according to the Agriculture Committee of Heilongjiang province. 

Heilongjiang province is a major agricultural province and a pivotal production area for hay. Data from the provincial Department of Agriculture reveals that hay production accounts for nearly one-eighth nationwide, almost half of the total in Northeast China.

The provincial government is keen for market forces to dominate the hay market, and has brought in leading companies to make the industry more professional and market orientated.

In addition, Heilongjiang will strictly regulate the burning of hay to help reduce pollution in the province.