The influence mechanism of farmers' contracted land transfer behavior on the willingness to homestead withdrawal: Empirical evidence from 4275 households nationwide

Exploring the influencing factors of farmers' voluntary and compensated withdrawal intention from homestead land is of great significance for promoting the people-oriented rural land system reform. Utilizing micro-survey data encompassing a nationwide scope, this study is anchored in the multifunctional perspective of land, which delineates how the transfer of contracted land influences the willingness to withdraw homestead land and demonstrate the mediating role of household livelihood strategies, as well as the moderating effects of generational disparities and reform pilot effect. The findings are as following: (1) The inflow of contracted land suppresses farmers' willingness to withdraw homestead land, whereas the outflow of contracted land enhances this willingness. (2) Using the ratio of out-migrating population and the proportion of non-agricultural income as proxy variables to assess the mediating role of household livelihood strategies, the study identifies that demographic transition is a significant pathway through which land transfer impacts the willingness to withdraw homestead land, rather than the change of household income structures. (3) The effect of outflow of contracted land in enhancing the willingness of younger farmers to withdraw homestead land is more pronounced, while its influence is less significant among farmers in reform pilot areas. Consequently, future policy formulations regarding homestead land withdrawal should identify the target group, with a respect for the willingness of farmers. It is necessary to synchronize policies of homestead withdrawal and contracted land transfer. It is also imperative to continuously enhance the off-farm employment capabilities of farmers and to facilitate the high-quality migration of the rural population in a scientifically sound manner. Policies should be tailored to account for the heterogeneity among farmers and the unique characteristics of different regions.