Migration, Growth, and Poverty Reduction in Rural China: Retrospect and Prospects

Rural-to-urban migration in China has transformed the lives of millions of rural residents. This paper reviews empirical evidence on the impacts of migration on the welfare of individuals and households in rural communities. After first discussing the evolution of institutions that have shaped individual and household migration decisions, it next reviews data issues that arise when studying migration in China, documents long-term migration trends, and presents evidence on the impacts of migration on household earnings, consumption, and risk of falling into poverty within rural communities. The paper next reviews new research raising concerns associated with the impacts of migration on those left behind in rural villages, including school-age and younger children, women, and the elderly. For comparative purposes, relevant evidence and approaches used are drawn from analytical research from the international literature on the impacts of migration experience. The paper also highlights open questions, with suggestions for future research and a discussion of policy priorities.