Agricultural and Non-Agricultural Sectors Compete Implicitly for Water Resources in China

This study addresses the challenges of water management in China amidst globalization and urbanization, focusing on the conflicts between the agricultural and non-agricultural sectors. An input–output model for 2017 was used to quantify virtual water flows and map the trade networks. The network exhibits “small-world” characteristics with efficient yet sparse connections. It identifies key virtual water exporters and importers, revealing regional disparities and significant spatial mismatches in water resources. Typically, agricultural sectors act as net exporters, whereas non-agricultural sectors are net importers of virtual water. Policy recommendations include tailored water management strategies, enhancing efficiency in provinces with substantial outflows, and establishing market-driven water trading to optimize resource allocations.