Work

Contractual and relational governance in high-standard farmland management: evidence from hunan province, China

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: As a key influencing factor of governance effectiveness, sound organizational operations in practice are largely attributable to the application of appropriate governance mechanisms. Based on transaction cost theory and using 442 micro-level survey data from China's Hunan Province as samples, this study employs structural equation modeling to analyze the impact of contractual and relational governance mechanisms on the performance of high-standard farmland management. The results indicate: (1) The governance performance of high-standard farmland is enhanced through the complementary effects of both contractual and relational governance mechanisms. Each mechanism exerts a direct, positive influence on performance outcomes; (2) Contractual governance contributes more significantly than relational governance to the improvement of governance performance; (3) The impact of contractual governance on the governance performance of high-standard farmland is partially mediated by relational governance. Accordingly, it is recommended to refine governance mechanisms in a context-specific manner, implement tailored policies for contractual and relational governance, appropriately and timely guide contractual governance, and promote integrated governance approaches to leverage the complementary strengths of both mechanisms.

Source: Frontiers in Sustainable Food Systems

DOI: 10.3389/fsufs.2026.1888351

Authors: Shi Li, Hui Liu

Institution: Hunan Agricultural University

Language: English

Topic: Land Rights and Reforms

Subfield: Soil Science

Field: Agricultural and Biological Sciences

Domain: Life Sciences

SDGs: Zero hunger, Peace, justice, and strong institutions

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,353